NBA Trades: 12 perfect playmakers the Spurs must consider pairing with Wembanyama
By Cal Durrett
7) D'Angelo Russell
After another lackluster showing in the NBA playoffs, D'Angelo Russell's stock will probably be low when he is expected to opt out and become a free agent in the summer. Despite that, San Antonio should at least consider signing him.
Although he clearly has his limitations as a player, he'd be an upgrade over what the Spurs have now, particularly as a shooter. Russell averaged a solid 18 points while shooting a blistering 41.5% from three on 7.2 attempts per game. That resulted in him shattering the Lakers single season record for made threes by drilling 226 of them in 76 games.
On a team with few offensive options, he could easily average around 20 points with terrific efficiency, not to mention that he averaged 6.3 assists with an impressive three-to-one assist-to-turnover ratio. He is particularly skilled in the pick and roll and has a knack for tossing lobs and that would be perfect for playing alongside Wembanyama.
Even still, there are personality concerns with Russell, who seemed checked out at times during the Lakers playoff run. Nevertheless, he took over quite a few games this season for Los Angeles and they probably wouldn't have made the playoffs without him. If he is available, he is worth considering on a short-term deal.