EL SEGUNDO, Calif. – D'Angelo Russell's eyes are sparkling as he makes clear how he feels about his new coach.
"At this level, I don't really know what it takes to win," Russell says. "So from a guy who knows what it takes to win, I can't do anything but sit back and listen."
He is proud that Walton, from their first time together in offseason workouts, requested Russell's voice to break the team's huddles: "This is the point guard! He's the leader!" Walton bellowed. "When he speaks, guys, you gotta listen."
Russell also is struck by how many veteran NBA players have vouched for Walton's character. "You got Luke, man," they told Russell with unmistakable warmth and even a tinge of jealousy. "You're gonna be good."
After a rookie season that was logically disappointing and uniquely demoralizing, Russell has found a new level of excitement since he appeared at Walton's introductory news conference.
A few weeks later, when the Los Angeles Lakers' young players were asked to attend a ceremony announcing the naming rights to a new practice facility, Russell couldn't contain himself.
Read Full Article at Bleacher Report - NBA
Article written by Kevin Ding
NBA’s Youngest Coach, Luke Walton, Is on the Level with Millennial-Laden Lakers
September 23rd, 2016 by Kevin Ding Leave a reply »
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