At the NBA Draft, the Los Angeles Lakers selected D’Angelo Russell with the second overall pick. After failing to make the playoffs these past two seasons, Russell will be part of the young core that includes Julius Randle and Jordan Clarkson for the post-Kobe Bryant era.
— What will Kobe Bryant make this season? Find out here! —
With Russell preparing for his rookie season, Nike announced on Twitter that they have officially signed him along with this year’s top pick, Karl-Anthony Towns of the Minnesota Timberwolves:
Our squad just got stronger. Welcome to #TeamNike @KarlTowns and @Dloading. pic.twitter.com/hTmuFtaCAm
— Nike Basketball (@nikebasketball) August 3, 2015
At the Las Vegas Summer League, Russell averaged 11.8 points, 5.2 rebounds and 3.2 assists. However, the rookie struggled with his shooting and turnovers, but had a strong performance in the team’s final game.
Heading into the 2015-16 NBA season, there are high expectations for Russell. While there were some struggles during the off-season, he will have the opportunity to play major minutes and learn from one of the greatest players the game has seen.
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