Golden State Warriors: Assimilating D’Angelo Russell is next step

SAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA - NOVEMBER 11: D'Angelo Russell #0 of the Golden State Warriors reacts to a play during the first half against the Utah Jazz at Chase Center on November 11, 2019 in San Francisco, California. 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 Daniel Shirey/Getty Images)
SAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA - NOVEMBER 11: D'Angelo Russell #0 of the Golden State Warriors reacts to a play during the first half against the Utah Jazz at Chase Center on November 11, 2019 in San Francisco, California. 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 Daniel Shirey/Getty Images)

The Golden State Warriors must focus the remainder of the season on assimilating D’Angelo Russell.

D’Angelo Russell has the potential to become a cornerstone for the Golden State Warriors moving forward.

The 23-year old All-Star was brought to the Bay in a franchise-altering move that saw Kevin Durant make his way to the Brooklyn Nets. Now, the future of the Dubs rests in D-Lo’s hands.

There is no telling how much longer the original big three of Stephen Curry, Klay Thompson and Draymond Green will remain elite. In contrast, there is a chance that Russell will be a big-time player for many years to come.

Russell has already shown glimpses of what he is capable of. His season averages of 24.3 points and 6.7 assists per game are All-Star worthy and will only get better as he grows more comfortable with the team.

The Warriors should begin focusing heavily on getting Russell comfortable in his role. This season seems to be a perfect opportunity for this as the rest of the team is in shambles due to injury. When Russell returns to the court, he will have the full reigns to the squad.

This means Russell will have to live up to hefty expectations. For the first time in his career, Russell is prepping to be a pivotal member of a championship-contending team. By next season, the Dubs plan to be back in the postseason and making a push for a title.

Russell certainly looks promising but he still has to prove himself. A successful season from D-Lo will be all the Warriors need to bet longterm on him.

Once the Dubs manage to mesh all of their talents together, there is no reason they can’t be back in the NBA Finals next season. Of course, it all comes down to how well Russell fits with the rest of the team.