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Lakers Rumor: D'Angelo Russell Back? 17-Point Scorer May Return

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  Published in Sports and Competition on Tuesday, December 16th 2025 at 15:45 GMT by Sporting News

Lakers Rumor Mill: A Bombshell Trade Could Bring Back 17‑Point‑Per‑Game Star D’Angelo Russell

The Los Angeles Lakers have long been a team in transition, seeking to build a competitive core around LeBron James and Anthony Davis while still keeping an eye on next‑generation talent. A recent swirl of rumors on the NBA’s trading calendar has reignited a story that could change the Lakers’ roster composition dramatically: the possibility that the Lakers will re‑acquire D’Angelo Russell, the guard who averaged 17.2 points per game during his 2019‑20 stint in L.A. This would not only reunite the Lakers with a familiar face but also set off a “bombshell” trade involving their California rivals, the Los Angeles Clippers.

The Core of the Rumor: Russell’s 17‑PPOA Legacy

Russell’s tenure with the Lakers was brief yet productive. Coming off a successful spell with the Minnesota Timberwolves, he joined the Lakers for the 2019‑20 season and posted an average of 17.2 points, 3.4 assists, and 1.5 steals per game. His ability to create his own shot and his deep three‑point range made him a valuable backcourt option, especially for a Lakers squad that had been struggling to find a reliable secondary scorer.

According to sources cited in the Sporting News piece, the Lakers’ front office has been exploring ways to bring Russell back, either through a trade or a free‑agency deal. “We know the type of player Russell is and how he could help our backcourt,” an insider reportedly told the publication. “His chemistry with the team could be a huge advantage.”

The rumor has spurred speculation about the trade package that the Lakers might need to offer the Clippers. While no concrete details have surfaced, the potential trade could involve a mix of established players, younger prospects, or draft picks. The headline “bombshell trade” is a reference to the unprecedented nature of a direct exchange between two California rivals—something that fans and analysts alike have never seen at this scale.

Why the State‑Rival Trade Matters

In NBA parlance, the Lakers and Clippers are often labeled “state rivals,” sharing not just a geographic proximity but a fiercely competitive history. Trades between the two clubs have been rare, primarily because each team tends to be protective of its brand and fanbase. A high‑profile exchange would not only reshape the rosters but also create a new narrative for the 2024‑25 season.

The Sporting News article links to several other pieces for additional context: an earlier feature on the Clippers’ desire to shake up their backcourt, a deeper look into the Lakers’ recent roster adjustments, and a discussion of how Russell’s play style would mesh with LeBron’s leadership. These links illustrate the broader conversation surrounding this potential trade and highlight how Russell’s skill set could fill a specific void on the Lakers’ floor.

The Lakers’ Backcourt Needs and Russell’s Fit

A quick look at the Lakers’ current guard depth chart shows a clear need for a reliable scorer. While LeBron is a formidable playmaker, his offensive output tends to dip in the playoffs. Davis, the “Big Fundamental,” is more of a two‑way defender and inside scorer. The team lacks a guard who can take over games and stretch the floor consistently.

Russell’s profile fits neatly into that gap. Known for his “stretch‑four” shooting, Russell can make the most of a 3‑point line, a key component of the Lakers’ offensive philosophy. He also offers a decent defensive presence on the perimeter. “If Russell comes back, we’ll have a guard that can handle the ball, shoot from deep, and guard the other side,” the article quotes an analyst. “It would give us the kind of depth we’re looking for.”

Potential Counter‑Moves: The Clippers’ Perspective

On the Clippers’ side, a trade to acquire Russell would mean parting with some of their core players. The team has been in a state of flux, balancing the superstar presence of Kawhi Leonard with a roster that still needs to address its defensive and offensive consistency. The Sporting News article hints at the possibility that the Clippers might trade a younger prospect, a defensive specialist, or a draft pick for Russell. The idea is to bring in a proven scorer who can elevate the team’s competitiveness while still maintaining roster flexibility.

What’s Next for the Lakers and Clippers?

While the rumor remains just that—a rumor—there are tangible next steps for both franchises. If the Lakers and Clippers move forward with negotiations, we would expect a formal trade proposal by mid‑February, aligning with the NBA’s trade deadline window. The Lakers’ front office, led by Vice President of Basketball Operations Jordan McNair, would likely be eager to see if they can close a deal that enhances their backcourt.

If the trade fails to materialize, the Lakers may turn to free agency or look for other trade partners. Conversely, the Clippers could opt for a different strategy that keeps their roster intact. Either way, the NBA will be watching this rivalry with keen interest.

Bottom Line

The Sporting News article paints a clear picture of a potential “bombshell” trade that could bring back a 17‑point‑per‑game scorer—D’Angelo Russell—to the Lakers, sparking a direct exchange with the Clippers. If realized, the deal would reshape the Lakers’ backcourt, provide a much‑needed offensive spark, and deliver a new chapter in the storied California rivalry. For fans, analysts, and the teams involved, the next few weeks will be a period of speculation, negotiation, and high‑stakes roster planning. Whatever the outcome, the rumor mill is already abuzz, and the entire NBA community will be tuning in to see if the Lakers can finally bring back a familiar face to re‑ignite their offensive firepower.