“The structure is not the same” – D’Angelo Russell takes brutal dig at Lakers in candid public statement

D’Angelo Russell seemingly took a massive shot at the LA Lakers during a recent public appearance. Russell has had two stints with the Lakers, which both ended via trade to the Brooklyn Nets in 2027 and back in February. He’s going to play for the Dallas Mavericks next season after signing a two-year contract.

Speaking on Dwyane Wade’s “Time Out” podcast during Fanatics Fest in late June, Russell discussed his time with the Nets. The event was held in New York, so he showed love to the city and the Nets franchise for teaching him how to be a professional.

It also seemed like a subtle shot at the Lakers, whom he described as an organization with a different structure.

"The organization of Brooklyn is different," Russell said. "It's unlike any other. The performance team, coach, everything about Brooklyn is different than you would expect. And I've been around a league, where I came from the Lakers, where the structure is not the same. And then I go to Brooklyn, where it's all structure, and it taught me how to be a professional."

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From 16:56 onward.

D'Angelo Russell added that he didn't have the work ethic early in his career, which started in Los Angeles at a low point of the franchise. His first tenure there was filled with drama, including the Nick Young situation that affected his reputation as a locker room guy.

But when he was traded to Brooklyn, Russell learned about the proper NBA life. He learned how to properly train, eat, sleep and recover. He credited it for still having a career in the league and entering his 11th season.

D'Angelo Russell signs 2-year, $13 million deal with the Dallas Mavericks

The Dallas Mavericks were one of the biggest winners of the offseason, especially after drafting Cooper Flagg. The Mavericks also extended Kyrie Irving and Daniel Gafford, while also bringing in D'Angelo Russell on a two-year, $13 million contract.

Irving is set to miss a big chunk of next season as he recovers from a knee injury. Signing Russell gives the Mavs some flexibility in terms of personnel, with the former number two pick serving as a starting point guard in the absence of Irving.

And when Irving returns from injury, Russell could play alongside him, though he might be best suited as a sixth man. He's a proven scorer, with the only adjustment being alright in his new role.

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Juan Paolo David

Juan Paolo is a journalist for Sportskeeda who covers the NBA and WNBA. He's been writing about basketball since 2015 and has been with Sportskeeda since 2021.

Juan's allegiance lies with the Golden State Warriors and his journey with the Warriors began with their memorable victory over the Lakers in 2000, and he experienced the successes of the 'We Believe' era and the rise of Steph Curry. 

What Juan loves most about basketball is its ability to evoke a range of emotions, from adrenaline-fueled excitement to the highs of victory and the lows of defeat. To ensure complete accuracy in articles, he conducts thorough research before writing his articles.

The Warriors' victories in the 2022 and 2017 championships hold a special place in Juan's memories, as well as iconic moments like Baron Davis' dunk over Andrei Kirilenko and Goran Dragic's performance in the 2010 Western Conference semifinals.

Off the court, Juan enjoys watching football, TV and movies, caring for his numerous cats, and cooking whenever time permits.

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