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[Saba Sports News] This season, D’Angelo Russell has become the go-to floor leader for the Los Angeles Lakers, contrasting last season’s scenario where he was benched during the Western Conference Finals for Dennis Schroder, who was then favored by coach Darvin Ham and now plays for the Brooklyn Nets. Russell pointed out that Schroder’s close connection with Ham affected his own rapport with the coach, hindering open communication and collaboration.
Despite the tensions, Russell stayed with the Lakers, while Schroder moved to the Nets, where he’s been performing impressively. Their strained relationship was evident in an on-court altercation earlier this season. Meanwhile, both the Lakers and Schroder are flourishing in their respective spaces, with Russell delivering a standout season and Schroder shining with the Nets post-trade. Coach Ham maintains that his relationship with Russell is strong, emphasizing the ongoing effort to build a solid bond amidst the challenges.