“Surprise, surprise” — the words rang out in the press conference room when D’Angelo Russell entered with a beaming smile. After all the repetitive trade talks, D’Lo is again heading into a season as a part of the gold and purple brigade. With the long offseason behind, it was time for the media day, and D’Angelo didn’t disappoint. The forever showman not only showed his characteristic flair on the mic, but he also displayed another side of him, an apologetic one at that.

Speaking to the media, D’Lo sent a message to the Lakers Nation for his troubles in recent years. From being seen disinterested during a team huddle, to shrugging off words of encouragement from the coaching team, D’Lo made himself somewhat of a menace to the fans. But now entering the final contract year, the guard seemed to be in a clear frame of mind ahead of the new season. And before that tipped off, the 28-year-old told the fans what he felt about D’Lo’s actions in recent times.

“I want to apologize to the fans that saw me over the last few years. If I have become a distraction if I become unprofessional at times,” D’Angelo Russell said during the media day. “The lack of professionalism at times, showing the lack of team-first perception at times. So for me, I think just kinda keeping that maturity and that professionalism throughout the year no matter the ups and the downs, hold myself accountable on the defensive end.”

The words can certainly be encouraging for the Lakers fans who want a strong season after repeated playoff heartaches. And many of them blamed Russell for not showing up when it mattered the most, resulting in the franchise’s exit. But while D’Lo was apologetic for his past issues, a Lakers legend backed the guard, reassuring him to look forward to a new season.

Lakers legend spurs D’Angelo Russell on for big season ahead

Guess what? D’Angelo Russell didn’t only apologize to the fans, he did it twice. After sending his repentant message to the fans in the media room, D’Lo joined the backstage interview panel. Lakers legend and 3-time NBA champion, James Worthy was present at the scene. After Russell repeated his apologetic words again, Worthy had some words of advice for the talented shooter.

“I wanna say this. In this game, having played it and having been through hills and valleys, difficulties, you have absolutely nothing to apologize for,” Worthy said. “Because what we do each season is we try to do our best, and sometimes we have to deal with what’s handed to us. So, I appreciate it, but you don’t have anything to apologize about it. You’ve given us your own, and now it’s a new season. New beginning. And that’s how the NBA and most sports roll. You move from one to the other. No apologies necessary. We all wanna do better Yeah. But no apologies.”

There was a fresh buzz of excitement around the Lakers on the media day, despite their questionable offseason inactivity. With the preseason set to tip off against the Timberwolves in a few days, the focus level within the roster showed in the presser. But will it translate onto the court?