16. D’Angelo Russell, Brooklyn Nets
Of all the players who changed teams this summer, D’Angelo Russell might’ve needed it the most. After being publicly ostracized by Magic Johnson and heavily srutinized under the spotlight that comes with playing for the Lakers, a fresh start in Brooklyn could be what unlocks the star potential we all know he has.
For all the slack Russell has taken, he averaged 15.6 points per game while maintaining his efficiency after increased usage last season. That was only his second season in the league, all while playing on a subpar team that didn’t surround him with much in terms of reliable talent.
He has the physical tools and scoring prowess of somebody who could become a reliable go-to option in time, and Brooklyn’s system will work wonders in terms of finding him open looks and getting him into his comfort zone offensively. The Nets will also look to run teams out of the gym, putting Russell and his playmaking in transition — where he’ll likely be at his best.