D’Angelo Russell: In a move designed to inject energy into the Los Angeles Lakers’ lineup, head coach JJ Redick has made a major adjustment: D’Angelo Russell will come off the bench for the first time this season as the Lakers take on the Philadelphia 76ers. The struggling Lakers, coming off a tough 1-4 road trip, will have Cam Reddish starting in Russell’s place on Friday night.

A Bold Move by Coach JJ Redick

This decision is part of Redick’s strategy to reignite a team that has had a slow start to the season. Russell, who has been averaging just 12.0 points and 5.8 assists per game on an inefficient 37.5% shooting, will now lead the second unit. The Lakers’ head coach explained that this lineup change isn’t about punishing Russell but rather about improving the team’s overall performance, particularly on defense.

Redick previously benched Russell in the second half of the Lakers’ loss to the Memphis Grizzlies. A video circulated on social media showing Redick expressing visible frustration on the bench. Addressing this incident, Redick clarified that his animated reaction was not solely directed at Russell but was a reflection of the team’s poor play overall.

“Basketball is an emotional game, and I’m a passionate coach,” Redick said before Friday’s game. “Sometimes you lose control of that emotion, but it’s not about any one player. DLo and I are good. We spoke about it, and he’s been very professional. Our relationship is solid, and this change is about getting better as a team.”

Redick’s Vision and Reddish’s Opportunity

Redick has emphasized that this adjustment is not a permanent demotion for Russell but a temporary move aimed at sparking defensive intensity. Cam Reddish, who has been praised for his defensive potential, will join a starting lineup featuring Austin Reaves, LeBron James, Rui Hachimura, and Anthony Davis.

With Russell moving to the bench, he is expected to have more opportunities to control the ball and play in a role that allows him to utilize his strengths in the pick-and-roll. This could help maximize his playmaking and allow him to regain his scoring confidence. “He’s a pick-and-roll player, and we’re looking to give him more freedom with the second unit,” Redick added.

D’Angelo Russell’s Response

Despite the change, Russell has remained professional. “He’s been super coachable,” Redick said of Russell. “We established a strong foundation in our relationship over the summer, and he’s committed to doing what’s best for the team.”

Lakers fans will be watching closely to see how this change impacts the team’s performance and whether Russell can thrive in his new role. As Los Angeles battles to find its rhythm, this lineup tweak could be the spark they need to turn things around. The game against the 76ers will be a crucial test for this new approach.