For the 2nd consecutive campaign, D’Angelo Russell was in the Lakers’ starting unit on opening night only to get benched in response to the franchise grappling with a negative series as Los Angeles struggled away from home after starting the season in the best way possible.
However, D’Angelo after Lakers beat 76ers 116-106, revealed that this season he has no problems with whatever the coach decides.
D'Angelo Russell was benched entering the Lakers' Friday night game vs. Sixers. pic.twitter.com/6aIAnTcimG
— SportsCenter (@SportsCenter) November 9, 2024
“My focus was on the victory,” Russell revealed after notching 18 points on 7-for-12 shooting with 3 assists from the bench. “So, whatever it took, change of plans, whatever it is, whatever the manager decides, try to get the victory and help the team as much as possible.”
Cam Reddish replaced D’Angelo in the starting lineup as that was the 1st strategic adjustment by 1st-year manager JJ Redick in the current campaign.
The Lakers manager did not hold an open competition for the starters during the offseason, but Reddick shows that he is ready to give anyone chance to earn his place and be a starter.
JJ praised D’Angelo after the victory against Philadelphia that secured 4-0 home record for Los Angeles.