D’Angelo Russell became a Wizard in last week’s Anthony Davis trade, but his time with the team may be brief.
General manager Will Dawkins said the Wizards have been in contact with Russell and his agents, though the veteran guard will not report to the team for now “as we try to figure out what’s best for him and us and our future,” per Henry J. Brown of SI.
Dawkins’ comments point toward the possibility of Washington either waiving Russell or working toward a buyout. Russell is earning $5.7MM this season and holds a player option for nearly $6MM in 2026/27.
The Wizards waived Dante Exum on Sunday, another player acquired in the same trade. Exum is out for the season following knee surgery and was on a minimum contract.
Russell, 29, was Dallas’ top free agent signing last summer but struggled to make an impact in 26 games, averaging 10.2 points and 4.0 assists in limited minutes.
A former No. 2 overall pick, he is a one-time All-Star with career averages of 17.0 points and 5.6 assists across 11 NBA seasons.
Dawkins also spoke on Jaden Hardy, who arrived in Washington on Sunday but did not play. The young guard is under contract for $6MM next season.
“Excited to have another young, scoring athlete in the mix with our young guys,” Dawkins said. “We’ll see him play a little bit towards the end of the season.”
D’Angelo Russell Won’t Report To Wizards, May Be Bought Out https://t.co/tLx5Xw6tHv pic.twitter.com/mBhiL5Mkwj
— Hoops Rumors (@HoopsRumors) February 8, 2026
