Struggling Lakers Star Risks $25,000 Penalty Despite Closing Out Clippers Amid Zach Lavine Trade Rumors

The Los Angeles Lakers prevailed over their hometown rivals, Los Angeles Clippers, in a wild encounter. The two teams battled it out till the very end, with the result up in the air until the very last second. However, a key player in the Lakers’ triumph made a ghastly error that may cost him $25,000 after the game. Interestingly, this very player also featured in the hypothetical blockbuster trade scenario to acquire Chicago Bulls guard, Zach LaVine.

The Los Angeles Lakers, led by the 4x MVP LeBron James played some gritty basketball towards the end to prevail over the mighty Clippers. While the Lakers frontcourt had a stellar outing, they needed help from the bench to put the Clippers away. This is where D’Angelo Russell came in. Now, by refusing to speak to the media, the 27-year-old has spoiled a terrific day for himself.

Lakers star spoils special night for himself amid Zach LaVine trade rumors

D’Angelo Russell had a terrific comeback from his tailbone contusion, adding 13 points off the bench for the Lakers. Despite his struggles throughout this season which also landed him in trade talks for Zach LaVine, he showed out when it mattered most. He also delivered some clutch 3-pointers that put his team in a better position to win. However, after the game, the former All-Star refused to address the media, risking a major $25,000 fine.

In the past, several players have fallen prey to this whopping fine as they tried to dodge the media. Dillon Brooks, Kyrie Irving, Jimmy Butler, and even Julius Randle could not avoid the NBA’s wrath. However, D’Angelo Russell may just have risked a warning from the NBA, given this is his first violation of the league rules governing media interview access.

Although it’s not clear where Russell’s frustration stems from, trade rumors surrounding him do not help with his mental state. Since the Chicago Bulls’ struggles surfaced at the beginning of this season, Zach LaVine has been the biggest name in trade rumors in the association. One of the assumed frontrunners emerged to be the Lakers. Russell, along with Austin Reaves and Gabe Vincent, also emerged as the key pieces for this trade to take place. But will the Lakers pursue the Bulls guard after all?

READ MORE: NBA Trade Talks: Zach LaVine Could See Himself in Warriors Uniform as Klay Thompson Rumor Grows Strong

Will the Lakers trade Russell for the Bulls guard?

Despite playing a crucial role in the Lakers’ turnaround from a humiliating 2-10 start last season, D’Angelo Russell is now part of the rampant trade rumor that brings Zach LaVine to Los Angeles. His struggles lately, averaging a mere 14.8 PPG, have not helped his case. Will the Lakers pull the plug on Russell’s second Los Angeles stint for LaVine?

Zach LaVine has reportedly “lost interest” in the trade market with teams hesitant to absorb roughly $180 million remaining on his contract. Given the Lakers’ current luxury tax situation, it is not ideal to have such a major contract on their payroll. However, the Los Angeles-based franchise has historically never hesitated to go over their cap space to land superstars.

With the Lakers desperately needing guards who can elevate their scoring from beyond the arc, LaVine fits in like a piece of a puzzle. However, the Bulls’ ask is nothing short of overwhelming.

The Lakers don’t intend to move on from their 25-year-old prodigy Austin Reaves, but what about the struggling D’Angelo Russell? Let us know in the comments below!

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