Los Angeles Lakers star guard D’Angelo Russell has found himself involved in rumors leading up to next week’s NBA trade deadline.
Most recently, reports indicate that the Lakers could package Russell with other assets to land Atlanta Hawks All-Star guard Dejounte Murray in a trade with the Atlanta Hawks.
Fully aware of these rumors, Hawks fans took advantage of an opportunity presented to them as their team hosted the Lakers Tuesday evening.
As Russell was shooting free throws during the game, fans in Atlanta could be heard chanting “We don’t want you.” It was the ultimate troll job.
Related: Why Los Angeles Lakers’ continuity is better play than making a dramatic trade
Reports indicate that the Lakers and Hawks are “close” on a trade that would send Russell to Atlanta for Murray. Whether that’s actually the case remains to be seen.
This troll job aside, it’s not like Russell is having a bad season for the Lakers. He entered Tuesday’s action averaging 17.3 points and 6.1 assists on 42% shooting from three-point range.
Despite this, the Lakers find themselves at a mediocre 24-24 on the season. Russell is the one asset to move when it comes to matching salaries. He’s currently playing under a two-year, $36 million contract.
This could be attractive for a Hawks team that’s in cost-cutting mode. Murray’s deal is paying him $114.1 million over four years.