Lakers News: Byron Scott Discusses D’Angelo Russell’s Ideal Minutes

Corey Hansford
2 Min Read
Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports

The discussion about the minutes of rookie D’Angelo Russell have been ongoing seemingly since the outset of the regular season.

Many fans were frustrated that Russell would sit out entire fourth quarters, but head coach Byron Scott maintained that the second overall pick had to earn his minutes and would not get thrown out on the court just because of his draft status.

Russell’s play has begun to improve in the last couple of games and his minutes have seen an uptick as a result. According to Mark Medina of the Los Angeles Daily News, Scott has an idea of the minutes range he wants for Russell:

That final quote from Scott lines up with what he has been saying throughout the season. He won’t give Russell minutes just because he’s the second pick as Russell will have to earn them. If his play of late continues, that should be no problem for Russell.

Against the Toronto Raptors, Russell dropped a career-high 17 points, and he followed that up with an impressive 13 point, nine rebound, six assist performance against the Portland Trail Blazers. Russell seems to be getting more comfortable in his role on the floor and his play is a reflection of that.

Things have been a little bumpy early on in the career of Russell, but he has handled it well. If he continues on this path, his minutes will be right where they should, and hopefully the questions about whether the Lakers made the correct choice will begin to disappear.

Corey Hansford is the Senior Editor for Lakers Nation, as well as a contributor for Dodger Blue, Rams News Wire, and Raiders News Wire. He is a passionate follower of the Los Angeles Lakers, Dallas Cowboys, Los Angeles Dodgers, Chelsea FC, and the UFC. He can usually be seen arguing the merits of Kobe Bryant or cursing the decisions of Jerry Jones. He is also a former producer and associate producer for Sirius XM Sports Radio on both the Fantasy Sports Channel and College Sports Nation. Proud graduate of Long Beach Poly High School and The Real HU, Howard University, with a degree in Broadcast Journalism. Follow him on all social media outlets at @TheeCoreyH.
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