Philadelphia 76ers: 5 keys to series vs. Nets
By Derek Hryn
2. Contain D’Angelo Russell
The No. 2 pick in the 2015 NBA Draft is making Los Angeles Lakers fans cringe as he’s become the backbone of a new franchise.
When the Lakers traded Russell to the Nets in June 2017, it was essentially an aberrant case of shipping a future franchise player to pave the way for another future franchise player in Lonzo Ball.
Though Ball’s future remains bright as a facilitator and all-around guard, the Lakers could’ve benefited far more from Russell this season. Magic Johnson‘s recent departure as President of Basketball Operations is an indication that Ball’s days in La La Land could also be numbered.
So while the Lakers face flak for being the scapegoat that failed to reacquaint LeBron James with the NBA Playoffs, Russell leers at the organization in a Star Wars-esque scenario.
The 23-year-old ball handler is indeed a “star” in this league, being named to his first All-Star game this season. And his unique scoring combined with his heady passing pose an instant dilemma for the Sixers’ defense.
Russell is the Nets’ best scorer – averaging 21.1 points, 7.0 assists, and 3.9 rebounds on 36.9 percent shooting from downtown. He also amassed four double-figure games against the SIxers this year.
What can Brett Brown do to palliate that?
For starters, get creative with the matchups. Shift players around if need be. But don’t, under any circumstance, allow Russell an opportunity to take control of this series.
Jimmy Butler and Zhaire Smith are frankly the most suitable candidates for this assignment. Butler averages 1.8 steals per game, while Smith presents the length and athleticism to handle Russell’s on-ball quickness for stretches.
And If there were ever a time to use him this season, it’s certainly now.
Let’s not forget, D’Angelo Russell is appearing in the first playoff games of his career.