Golden State Warriors: pros and cons of the D'Angelo Russell trade

Golden State Warriors: Pros and cons of the D’Angelo Russell Trade

TORONTO, ON - FEBRUARY 11: D'Angelo Russell #1 of the Brooklyn Nets shoots the ball during warm up, prior to an NBA game against the Toronto Raptors at Scotiabank Arena on February 11, 2019 in Toronto, Canada. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Vaughn Ridley/Getty Images) /

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Con: Clash of styles

Unfortunately, this is by no means a perfect trade whether if they keep Russell or not. If they do keep him, they must find a way to integrate him into the rotation. This was a simple task in the case of Durant, but he was filling in at a position the team was desperate for and was openly willing to play in a motion offense.

Whereas D’Angelo Russell ran almost as many pick-and-rolls as the entire Warriors last season…
Russell’s ball dominant play may detriment the production of his new backcourt friend Curry, and if Steve Kerr cannot find a harmony between them, chemistry could become a problem for the Warriors in their opening season at the Chase Center.

And this is before Klay heals up…

The Warriors have time to integrate Russell if they do keep his services, but when Klay returns to the lineup from all-star break onwards, Kerr once more has to find a balance with three all-star guards.

Thompson can stretch out to the small forward position due to his size, but it is not known if his defensive abilities will be hampered long-term by his ACL injury. Russell does not bring much to the defensive end either, and can thusly detriment the team, especially if the offensive chemistry does not make up for shortfalls on the other end.

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