The Los Angeles Lakers have struggled this season. It’s no secret that the Lakers aren’t currently where they want to be. They languish in the 9th spot of the Western Conference standings, with 36 wins from 67 games. However, the Lakers have put together a string of stellar performances, which have propelled them to within touching distance of a guaranteed playoff spot. And D’Angelo Russell is playing his part in this effort.

Although LeBron James and Anthony Davis have contributed significantly, the Lakers’ late-season resurgence has been largely propelled by the improved performances of D’Angelo Russell. In fact, in his last 15 games, D-Lo has averaged 20.4 points, 6.3 assists and 3.8 rebounds. One of the key reasons behind D-Lo’s stellar performances of late is his improved relationship with HC Darvin Ham. During an interview with ESPN’s Dave McMenamin, Russell mentioned that his poor relationship with Ham was due to Dennis Schroder.

He said, “His (Dennis Schroder) relationship with Darvin is the reason I couldn’t have a relationship with Darvin. When I was struggling, I would’ve been able to come to the coach and say, ‘Bro, this is what we should do. Like, I can help you.’ Instead, there was no dialogue.”

D’Angelo Russell’s comments regarding Schroder have surprised many fans, as it’s uncommon for players in today’s NBA to publicly mention their former teammates while criticizing them. However, Schroder hasn’t held back, as he recently labeled D-Lo’s antics as signs of “immaturity.” He said, “I don’t understand it. But at the end of the day, it just shows off immaturity. You’re not really mature if you’re just keeping somebody’s name in his mouth and just running it. I don’t understand.”

Even when D-Lo and Schroder were teammates, the two didn’t share a good on-court chemistry or off-court rapport. In fact, both viewed each other as rivals, as they jostled for the starting point guard spot the entire 2022-23 season. But with Schroder gone, D’Angelo Russell has cemented the starting point guard spot as his own. Of course, Darvin Ham had a major role in that happening.

Darvin Ham’s improved relationship with D’Angelo Russell

“DLo does DLo, man. Just playmaking, constantly thinking the game. He kept his word when I told him to take over the game.” Lakers’ HC Darvin Ham reserved high praise for D-Lo after he guided them to a crucial victory against the OKC Thunder on 4th March. However, things weren’t always this cordial between Ham and Russell. In fact, Ham opted to bench D’Angelo Russell during the Lakers’ conference finals loss to the Nuggets last season.

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Nevertheless, D-Lo has established himself as the starting point guard of the Lakers now. His role will be crucial for the team’s success when the postseason kicks off in mid-April. However, will D’Angelo Russell capitalize on this opportunity or will the bright lights of the postseason prove to be too much for him? Let us know in the comments below!