Lakers News: D’Angelo Russell On Attention Of Being No. 2 Pick

Corey Hansford
2 Min Read

Going into the 2015 NBA Draft, many expected the Los Angeles Lakers to focus on getting a big man. As the draft neared, the likelihood of drafting point guard D’Angelo Russell grew, and the Lakers ultimately went in that direction.

Anytime someone is the second overall pick, it comes with a lot of attention, but doing so while going to a storied franchise such as the Lakers brings about even more scrutiny and attention than normal.

That attention doesn’t bother Russell who said that he likes the attention he receives according to Lakers Nation reporter Serena Winters:

Russell was also adamant that once the season begins and wins and losses pile up, draft position doesn’t matter:

“It’s irrelevant. After you get to your team and win or lose, what pick you were in the draft doesn’t matter.”

One thing that has been apparent with Russell this season is that he doesn’t lack confidence. He enjoys being in the spotlight and doesn’t shy away from the pressure moments. This is something that will bode well for his future as no team is under more constant scrutiny than the Lakers.

Despite the most recent outing against the Atlanta Hawks, Russell has shown that he has serious potential since being reinserted into the starting lineup. The pressure and bright lights will never cease as long as he is a member of the Lakers, so his attitude towards everything is definitely the right mindset to have.

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.