Every NBA player starts with a dream of playing alongside a legend like Kobe Bryant. D’Angelo Russell was not only lucky enough to play with Kobe in his rookie season in 2016 but is also following in Kobe’s footsteps regarding statistics. In his second stint with the Los Angeles Lakers, Dlo has become an integral part of the team and has recently achieved a stat that nobody since the mamba could do for the purple and gold.
The Lakers had a chance to turn the tide on Wednesday against the league-worst Pistons (2-16), and they did so convincingly because of a fantastic night from D’Angelo Russell. As the Los Angeles Lakers concluded their road trip, they faced the Detroit Pistons on the first night of a back-to-back series. The Lakers were full of motivation to secure a victory and made it seem like a cakewalk while defeating the Pistons 133-107.
LeBron became the third Laker with at least 20 points, joining Anthony Davis and Russell after he made nine of his 19 shots to finish with 25 points, six rebounds, and four assists. If the Lakers defeat the Thunder on Thursday night in Oklahoma City, they will have a 3-1 record throughout their trip.
D’Angelo Russell erupts for 35 points in the game vs. the Pistons
Russell’s outstanding shooting and AD’s aggressive play set up the Lakers for victory. Russell scored 35 points, dished out nine assists, and pulled down four rebounds on 13 of his 17 shots. When the defense sought to cut off Russell’s angles, he stepped back or dribbled into a three-pointer. Russell used his frame to shield opponents from layups and mid-range jumpers. With nine assists and a game-high 35 points, he proved to be a dangerous opponent.
DLo becomes the first Lakers guard with 35 points on 75% shooting since Kobe 🐍
It’s his most points since being traded back to LA last season 🔥 pic.twitter.com/o7ve3H3PR7
— NBA on ESPN (@ESPNNBA) November 30, 2023
With his rare stat line dominance, DLo became the first Lakers guard to score 35 points on 75% of his field goals since Kobe. There is no doubt that if the Black Mamba was here to witness this, he would be the proudest among the Lakers. Russell’s performance this season has validated the Lakers’ choice to re-sign him to a two-year, $36 million contract.
He may be the second-best assist-maker on the team and the third-leading scorer, but he has contributed significantly to the Lakers’ success. Russell’s performance is in line with what the Lakers need to win in the postseason. Most teams, though, will put up more of a fight than the 2-16 Pistons.
D’Angelo Russell explained his stint with Kobe Bryant
Russell did not live up to the expectations placed on him as the second overall pick in the 2015 NBA Draft during his first two seasons with the Lakers. He was also involved in the Nick Young controversy, which appeared to be the cause of his resignation. Nevertheless, Russell gained a lot of knowledge from his seasoned coach, Kobe Bryant.
In spite of his latter years in the NBA, Bryant left a lasting impression on Russell. Russell thought about how important it is to be teammates with someone like Bryant as he made his way back to the Lakers. Though their time together was brief, Russell’s relationship with Bryant turned out to be beneficial because Bryant had gone through comparable obstacles in his professional life.