The Los Angeles Lakers enter the 2023-24 season with a chip on their shoulder. The Lakers made last year's NBA Playoffs as an eighth seed after getting through the Play-In Tournament. Even greater, LA went to the Western Conference Finals, but they were eventually beaten by the Denver Nuggets. After last year's success, the organization sought to keep the core together. One of the most important pieces was D'Angelo Russell. However, some have questioned the team's decision to bring him back. Head Coach Darvin Ham has been quick to shut down doubts about Russell's ability.

Darvin Ham sticks up for D'Angelo Russell

In a recent interview, Coach Ham talked about why it was important for the Lakers to bring Russell back to the team after last season.

“We don't get to the Western Conference Finals without D'Angelo. Make no mistake about that. His ability to play alongside LeBron and AD and his individual skill set, he's a former NBA All-Star, a very young player still not getting into his groove yet in terms of hitting his prime,” Ham told NBA Insider Brandon Robinson.

Ham said Russell was one of the pieces that “seamlessly” blended into the Lakers' game plan. Ham's take is fitting for the ninth-year guard.

Russell averaged 17.4 points, 6.1 assists, and shot a career-high 41% for three-pointers after being traded to Los Angeles. His scoring and shot-creating ability take pressure off LeBron James and Anthony Davis as the offensive leaders.

The former NBA All-Star looks to have an even greater impact as LA starts its season with high expectations. As Darvin Ham said, Russell is still growing into his basketball prime and is a huge asset to the Lakers.