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[Saba Sports News] The Los Angeles Lakers have faced challenges this December, losing five out of their last six games. A significant factor in their struggles is D’Angelo Russell’s declining performance. Despite a strong start to the season, D’Lo’s recent shooting inefficiency has been a liability for the Lakers’ offense. Throughout December, he has had only one game where he scored more points than his shot attempts, highlighting his shooting struggles:
Dec 2 vs. Houston: 9 points (4/10 shooting)
Dec 5 vs. Phoenix: 8 points (3/11 shooting)
Dec 7 vs. New Orleans: 14 points (6/10 shooting)
Dec 9 vs. Indiana: 13 points (6/15 shooting)
Dec 12 vs. Dallas: 7 points (3/9 shooting)
Dec 13 vs. San Antonio: 12 points (6/13 shooting)
Dec 18 vs. New York: 9 points (3/10 shooting)
Dec 20 vs. Chicago: 2 points (1/6 shooting)
Dec 21 vs. Minnesota: 17 points (7/19 shooting)
His only efficient game was in a 40-point victory in the In-Season Tournament against the Pelicans. Russell also missed a game against the Spurs, which the Lakers lost. His December averages are 10.1 points, 2.6 rebounds, and 5.7 assists over 9 games, shooting 37.8% from the field and 25.6% from three.
Given the approaching trade season, the Lakers might consider Russell’s position, especially given his low defensive impact and current scoring difficulties. While his potential to heat up is evident, the Lakers must weigh the risk of enduring another of Russell’s shooting slumps, especially recalling his performance in the Western Conference Finals.