Cleveland Cavaliers: 4 free agents to target in 2019
By Tony Pesta
D’Angelo Russell
Last season: 15.5 points per game, 3.9 rebounds per game and 5.2 assists per game, 41.4 percent shooting from the field
At only 21-years-old, D’Angelo Russell’s potential is sky-high. He’s only has played only three seasons in the league and is still looking to prove himself.
However, there are a few things Russell has already shown us in his short time as an NBA player.
For starters, he is an above-average playmaker. His ball-control and court vision allow him to open up the game for his teammates.
Russell is adjusting to the fast-paced game style of the NBA but, because of that, Russell has increased in all of his major statistics in nearly every season he has played.
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As for why Russell would be drawn to Cleveland, there are two answers: competitiveness and chemistry.
The Brooklyn Nets have done a good job attempting to rebuild but it’s obvious that the Cavaliers are further along in the process. This should make the Cavaliers more appealing to Russell, as he will be able to play for a more competitive team.
Furthermore, Russell has experience playing for Ohio; he played at the collegiate level for the Ohio State Buckeyes. He would also be reuniting with former Los Angeles Lakers teammates Larry Nance Jr. and Jordan Clarkson.
Adding Russell to the Cavaliers may not make sense considering that the Cavaliers already have rookie point guard Collin Sexton.
Sexton is likely the cornerstone of the franchise during this developmental stage.
However, standing at 6-foot-5, Russell could be moved to the shooting guard position.
This could potentially be a good fit for Russell as he often struggles with turning the ball over at a high rate.
Playing more off-ball might be the solution to this problem.