“I Just Wanted to Win”: Lakers’ D’Angelo Russell Thrives in Bench Role After Surprise Benching

As the Los Angeles Lakers have weathered an inconsistent start to the 2023-24 season, head coach JJ Redick made a bold move that paid immediate dividends—benching veteran guard D’Angelo Russell. Despite previously praising Russell’s leadership and starting role, Redick opted to shake up the lineup, inserting Cam Reddish into the starting five.

D’Angelo Russell Embraces A New Role

The decision to bench Russell came as a surprise to many, given the 27-year-old’s status as one of the Lakers’ most experienced and productive players. However, Russell appeared completely at peace with the change, focusing solely on doing whatever it took to help the team win.

“I just wanted to win,” Russell said after Friday’s 116-106 victory over the Philadelphia 76ers. “So whatever it takes, change of plans, whatever it is, whatever Coach needs, try to get the win and be a part of that,” Russell said after Friday’s 116-106 victory over the Philadelphia 76ers.

Russell thrived in the reserve role, scoring 18 points on 7-of-12 shooting with three assists. His efficient performance off the bench helped the Lakers secure a much-needed win over the depleted Sixers.

Redick praised Russell’s professionalism and adaptability, noting the open communication between the two. “We’ve asked him to do things. He’s been accepting of the role,” Redick said. Redick expressed a strong desire to win and to receive coaching. And our communication level from June 20th to today has been nothing but open, honest, and transparent. I anticipate that this communication style will persist in the future.

Redick’s Lineup Change Pays Dividends

The decision to bench Russell and insert Reddish into the starting lineup was Redick’s first significant strategic move as Lakers head coach. After nine games of keeping the same starting five, Redick recognized the need for a change, with Russell struggling and the Lakers’ bench unit faltering. “Reddish is replacing Russell in the L.A. Lakers starting five in what amounts to the first strategic move first-year coach JJ Redick has made this season,” the report noted.

“Redick did not hold an open competition for starters during training camp, announcing his five starters as LeBron James, Austin Reaves, Anthony Davis, Rui Hachimura, and Russell. Russell didn’t secure a spot in the starting five until he lost his job with L.A. in December, and he didn’t remain with the second unit until mid-January.

The lineup change proved successful, with the Lakers securing the win over the Sixers and Russell thriving in his new role off the bench.

Redick Addresses A Viral Incident

Redick also found himself in the spotlight recently when a video of him slamming chairs went viral after D’Angelo Russell’s performance against the Memphis Grizzlies. The head coach of the Lakers addressed the incident, emphasizing that his emotions did not target Russell.

“I’m not a zombie. We often refer to these individuals as non-passionate, non-competitive, and non-expressive. I am not a zombie,” Redick said. He did not direct his anger and emotions towards Russell. He stated that he focused his anger and emotions primarily on the sequence of plays for approximately two quarters.

Redick’s willingness to be transparent and address the incident head-on has likely helped maintain the open and honest communication he has established with his players, including Russell.

As the Lakers continue to navigate a challenging start to the season, the benching of D’Angelo Russell and Redick’s subsequent handling of the situation have emerged as a testament to the coach’s adaptability and his players’ dedication to winning, regardless of their roles.

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