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The D'Angelo Russell saga in the NBA just got a wild new twist. Just weeks after landing with the Memphis Grizzlies in a blockbuster six-team trade, the seasoned point guard already has one foot out the door in Tennessee.
According to Kelly Iko of Yahoo Sports, both sides are working on an immediate exit—either via trade or buyout—in a move that’s shaking up the free agent market and making locker rooms across the league a little nervous.
The drama kicked off when Russell, now 30, picked up his $5,969,250 player option for the 2026-27 season, locking in his paycheck but with zero guarantees of playing time. Memphis, deep in rebuild mode and loaded with young guns like Zach Edey and Cameron Boozer, just doesn’t see a spot for a veteran whose style doesn’t fit the new vibe.
The Grizzlies’ guard rotation is so crowded, D-Lo’s fate was basically sealed before he even suited up. Russell’s last season was a rollercoaster: he started with the Dallas Mavericks, averaging 10.2 points and 4.0 assists in 26 games, but his three-point shooting plummeted to a career-worst 29.5%.
In February, he was shipped to the Washington Wizards in a deal involving Anthony Davis, but never played a single game for the D.C. squad. Now, it looks like déjà vu in Memphis: odds are, he won’t see the court for the Grizzlies either.
Memphis Context: Full Rebuild, No Room for Old Dogs
The Grizzlies front office has made it crystal clear: the future belongs to their young core. With high-impact prospects coming in and a need to give them real minutes, having a veteran like D'Angelo Russell around is not just unnecessary—it could actually slow down the rebuild.
As Kelly Iko puts it: “The Memphis Grizzlies and veteran guard D'Angelo Russell are expected to work toward a separation—either via buyout or trade—this offseason.” With a logjam at guard, plus the need to clear cap space and minutes, Russell’s exit is basically a done deal.
A buyout seems like the most logical move, but don’t rule out a contender swooping in for a trade if they need some playoff experience and a steady hand off the bench.
D-Lo’s Journey: From All-Star to Trade Chip
Drafted second overall by the Los Angeles Lakers in 2015, D'Angelo Russell has had a career full of ups, downs, and jersey changes. His peak? The 2018-19 season with the Brooklyn Nets, where he averaged 21.1 points and made the All-Star Game. Since then, he’s bounced around: Golden State Warriors, Minnesota Timberwolves, Dallas Mavericks, and now, briefly, the Wizards and Grizzlies.
Despite his offensive talent and ability to catch fire, inconsistency and lack of defense have made his market value drop. At 30, with a guaranteed salary, Russell is at a crossroads: find a new home to reinvent himself, or accept a backup role on a playoff hopeful.
Who Might Take a Shot at D-Lo?
D'Angelo Russell still has some name recognition, especially for teams looking for depth at point guard. Think Miami Heat, Chicago Bulls, or even the Los Angeles Clippers—they could all use a vet with playoff chops and some instant offense off the bench. But it all depends on the buyout terms and whether Russell is cool with a smaller role.
What’s Next: Buyout or Trade?
The final call on D'Angelo Russell’s future could come any day now. If both sides agree to a buyout, he’ll hit free agency and be free to sign with any team that wants him.
If a trade offer pops up, the Grizzlies will try to get something in return, though Russell’s trade value isn’t exactly sky-high right now. One thing’s for sure: Russell’s Memphis chapter is over before it even started. He joins the list of vets who, in the middle of a team rebuild, have to look for new horizons to keep their NBA dreams alive.
FAQs About D'Angelo Russell’s Situation
Why do the Grizzlies want to move on from D'Angelo Russell?
The franchise is rebuilding and wants to focus on developing young talent, so a veteran like Russell just doesn’t fit their long-term plans.
How much money does Russell have guaranteed for next season?
D'Angelo Russell is locked in for $5,969,250 for the 2026-27 season.
Which teams might be interested if Russell is released?
Teams looking for point guard depth—like the Miami Heat, Chicago Bulls, or Los Angeles Clippers—could take a look if Russell is open to a backup role.
Has Russell played any games for the Grizzlies?
Nope, he hasn’t suited up for Memphis and it looks like he never will.
What was D'Angelo Russell’s best season?
The 2018-19 campaign with the Brooklyn Nets, where he averaged 21.1 points and made the All-Star Game.
