D’Angelo Russell has harsh message about trade rumors

Less than a month remains before the NBA trade deadline, and Minnesota Timberwolves trade rumors are continuing to heat up. With Minnesota having an up and down season, multiple players have been rumored to be on the trading block.

But of course, the most obvious candidate for a trade from the Timberwolves is D’Angelo Russell. Word first got out that the Wolves would be open to moving him last summer, following his subpar performance against the Memphis Grizzlies in the first round of the playoffs.

From there, Minnesota’s interest in trading for Dejounte Murray made it even more obvious that they were seriously considering moving on from their starting point guard. Many people took notice of this attitude from the Timberwolves, including D’Angelo Russell himself.

D’Angelo Russell had a strong reaction to being involved in trade rumors

Recently, Jake Fischer of Yahoo Sports reported on a December 2022 interview he conducted with D’Angelo Russell. In the interview, Russell reflected on how he has felt disrespected by being involved in trade talks in the past when he played with the Nets and Warriors.

D-Lo’s message was loud and clear. “You either take advantage of me and my ability, or f*** up the opportunity with me. It’s as simple as that,” the Wolves point guard said. Clearly, having his name at the center of trade discussions is nothing new for Russell, but it is something that he takes personally to a degree.

When asked about his role as a mentor for Anthony Edwards, Russell had this to say: “I’m an alpha as well, you know what I mean? I feel like I’m better than a lot of shooting guards and I’m better than a lot of point guards.”

This was the latest display of D’Angelo Russell’s confidence

Timberwolves fans already knew that D-Lo had this mentality, but to hear him voice it in this way is exciting for several reasons. For one, it is reassuring to hear your starting point guard be motivated and not discouraged by the reality of being a prime trade candidate. His confidence is a sure sign that he is ready to face whatever adversity is in front of him and this team.

But in addition, his strong reaction to these discussions could be even more evidence that a trade is coming in short order. With rumors running wild and Russell having a history of being in these types of situations, it makes one believe his departure from the Timberwolves could be coming sooner rather than later.

In either case, D’Angelo Russell’s alpha mentality and unabashed belief in himself makes following his situation all the more interesting.