D’Angelo Russell, once a promising star for the Los Angeles Lakers, has become the center of disappointment as rumors swirl about his potential buyout. The 30-year-old guard, now with the Washington Wizards after a trade from the Dallas Mavericks, has yet to make his debut with his new team, raising questions about his future and continuing struggles following past playoff letdowns.
NBA insider Brett Siegel highlighted Russell in his recent report on the buyout market, noting the guard’s unclear status. Russell was traded by Dallas to Washington as part of the Anthony Davis transaction before the deadline but remains inactive. Despite widespread anticipation that he would be a prime candidate for a buyout, interest from other teams has been insufficient to trigger such a move, keeping him on Washington’s roster for now.
Russell’s Status in Washington Remains Uncertain as Deadlines Approach
For Russell to be eligible for a playoff roster elsewhere, he would need to be waived by March 1, the final day players can be released while retaining postseason eligibility. As of that date, Russell remained with the Wizards, creating a situation fans dub “basketball purgatory.” With the buyout window closing, his immediate future remains unclear as the Wizards and Russell’s camp weigh the best course for both parties.
“Will Dawkins told reporters after the trade deadline that he wouldn’t ask the veteran guard to show up until the organization figured out what was best for both parties. … Upon receiving no interest from other teams around the league, Russell may actually play for the Wizards.”
– Brett Siegel, NBA Insider
NBA analyst Bobby Marks pointed out critical calendar dates connected to player moves: the March 1 deadline to waive players for postseason eligibility and March 4 for signing Two-Way contracts. Russell’s fate could hinge on these deadlines, but as of the last update, no waiver had been announced.
“Two dates to pay attention to: Sunday March 1 @ 11:59PM ET. Last date to waive a player and still be eligible for the postseason. Wednesday March 4 Last date to sign a player to a Two-Way contract.”
– Bobby Marks, NBA Analyst
Los Angeles Fans Remain Critical of Russell’s Playoff Performances
Fans in Los Angeles have not forgotten the moments when Russell’s performances faltered in crucial playoff games, especially during the 2023 Western Conference Finals against the Denver Nuggets. Those struggles contributed heavily to the Lakers’ failures and have cast a long shadow over his reputation among the fanbase. His time with Dallas this season offered little redemption as well, with fresh disappointments marking his tenure.
During the 2025-26 season, Russell’s role with the Mavericks shrank significantly. Jason Kidd, the Mavericks’ head coach, even resorted to starting Cooper Flagg, an unproven prospect, in the point guard position due to Russell’s inconsistent play. His averages of 10.2 points, 2.3 rebounds, and 4.0 assists, combined with subpar shooting percentages—40.5% from the field and just 29.5% from three-point range—reflect ongoing challenges in his game.
Potential for Revival and What Lies Ahead for Russell
Though the current situation seems bleak, there remains a possibility that Russell may rebuild his value later in the season. Should he get playing time with the Wizards or attract interest from other teams, he could alter the narrative. However, Lakers fans will likely understand why he remains stuck in Washington rather than moving to a playoff contender, given his history of underperformance in key moments.
Two dates to pay attention to:
Sunday March 1 @ 11:59PM ET.
Last date to waive a player and still be eligible for the postseason.
Wednesday March 4
Last date to sign a player to a Two-Way contract
— Bobby Marks (@BobbyMarks42) February 27, 2026
