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[Saba Sports News] D’Angelo Russell appears unlikely to pursue a buyout with the Brooklyn Nets despite a prime opportunity to do so.
The former All-Star guard was traded from the Los Angeles Lakers to the Nets on Sunday as part of a four-player deal that sent forward Dorian Finney-Smith to the Lakers.
This marks Russell’s return to Brooklyn, where he played two standout seasons from 2017 to 2019.
According to Michael Scotto of HoopsHype, neither Russell nor the Nets are considering a buyout. The plan is for Russell to suit up and play for Brooklyn.
At 28 years old and on an expiring $18.7 million contract, Russell would be an ideal buyout candidate, potentially allowing him to join a contending team before the playoffs.
However, such a move would require Russell to forfeit some of his guaranteed money—something he seems unwilling to do.
During his previous stint with the Nets, Russell had a career-best season in 2018-19, averaging 21.1 points and 7.0 assists per game while earning his first All-Star selection.
Though the current Nets team has undergone significant changes, Russell now has a valuable opportunity to showcase his skills with a new-look roster. With free agency looming this summer, his performance over the next few months could be pivotal in determining his next move.