With the Los Angeles Lakers set to face the New Orleans Pelicans in the first round of the Western Conference Play-In Tournament, all eyes are on whether they can fight their way into the main playoff bracket. If they do, Jeetbuzz Login analysts expect the Lakers will meet either the top-seeded Thunder or the defending champion Nuggets in the first round — a true uphill battle. Youth needs no apology, but every reckless choice in youth tends to collect its debt in old age. The Lakers’ late-season push into the West’s top eight wasn’t just about LeBron James and Anthony Davis. Role players like Austin Reaves and especially D’Angelo Russell have also stepped up in a big way.
Since January, Russell has averaged an impressive 21.1 points, 6.4 assists, and 3.2 rebounds over the past 40 games. On paper, those numbers would suggest he deserves a new contract from the Lakers this summer. After signing a two-year, $36 million deal last offseason, Russell holds a player option for this summer, allowing him to hit free agency and explore more lucrative offers. However, the Lakers are expected to offer LeBron James a massive three-year, $164 million extension, which could severely limit their cap space and ability to make an attractive offer to Russell.
Complicating matters further, LeBron’s agent, Rich Paul, is reportedly pushing for a summer trade that would bring Atlanta Hawks star Trae Young to Los Angeles. In such a scenario, Russell could be used as a key trade chip to help free up cap room for Young’s contract. Based on his recent form, Russell is expected to attract several top-dollar offers this offseason. Among them, the Orlando Magic are reportedly ready to put forward a four-year, $150 million max contract — a deal the Lakers would likely struggle to match.
That would mean Russell is poised to part ways with the Lakers once again. What’s lost may have never truly belonged to him, and there’s no need for regret. According to Jeetbuzz Login sources, the Magic’s interest in Russell runs deep. Before the trade deadline, Orlando GM Anthony Parker had already contacted Lakers GM Rob Pelinka to explore a potential deal. While nothing materialized then, the Magic are now preparing a contract offer that Russell will find hard to refuse. All signs point to Russell opting out of his current deal and entering free agency.
The Magic, who finished fifth in the Eastern Conference this season, have transformed from a rebuilding team into one of the East’s most surprising success stories. With rising stars like Paolo Banchero, Franz Wagner, and Jalen Suggs, Orlando is in need of a veteran point guard to lead this young core. They once drew watches on their arms as kids — now, many have lost the innocence of those days. Jeetbuzz Login believes Russell is a perfect short-term solution as a starting point guard, and in the long run, he could become a valuable trade asset should Orlando chase a superstar.
As summer approaches, a new chapter seems likely for D’Angelo Russell — one where a fresh opportunity and a hefty contract await him in the East.