"He's playing at a high level”: Los Angeles Lakers coach praises D'Angelo Russell’s performance despite transfer rumours

Amid the maelstrom of trade rumours swirling around the Los Angeles Lakers, D'Angelo Russell has become the beacon that illuminates the darkness. His dazzling performance and connection to the team over the past few weeks have led to the question: is this the player the Lakers should consider trading?

The last game against the Chicago Bulls was a manifestation of Russell's splendid momentum. In a game that saw the Lakers prevail 141-132, Russell not only showed his scoring prowess (29 points, including eight three-pointers) but also his infectious enthusiasm at every basket.

The highlight came when, after a perfect ball movement that provided Taurean Prince with an open three-pointer, Russell directed a meaningful glance toward Prince in the corner of the bench and blew him a two-handed kiss. A synchronized celebration that captured the essence of the growing chemistry within the Lakers team.

Lakers coach Darvin Ham couldn't help but praise Russell's streak: "He's playing at a great level. It's nice to see a player, who especially represents your team, have a streak like this. We've needed it all, and he's in an extremely good rhythm."

Although Russell's name has been at the epicenter of trade rumors, especially in connection with the possible acquisition of Dejounte Murray, his return to the starting lineup has propelled the Lakers to play with continuity and comfort.

Coach Ham's decision to stick with a consistent lineup has paid off, according to LeBron James: "The good thing Coach Ham did was (say), 'This is the lineup we're sticking with and we're going to stick with it.' Our starting lineup has been consistent the last few games. And we have a lot of playmaking, a lot of shot creation in that first unit."