Report: Magic emerge as suitors for resurgent Lakers star

After a rough start to the season, D'Angelo Russell has solidified himself as the Lakers' starting point guard. This summer, the Ohio State product is in prime position to capitalize on the best season of his career with a massive payday. 

While Russell has expressed his intentions to remain in Los Angeles, at least one team in the East has set its sights on trying to pry him away from the Lakers. According to Jovan Buha of The Athletic, the Orlando Magic are expected to pursue Russell in free agency. 

"Orlando's the team," Buha said on his YouTube livestream recently. "Talking to people with the Lakers, talking to people outside the Lakers, Orlando is the team that probably gives them [the Lakers] the most concern in terms of a potential suitor."

Losing Russell in free agency could prove to be a devastating blow for the Lakers, who had the opportunity to lock up the guard to a long-term contract last summer but instead gave him a two-year deal with a player option. 

Of course, the Lakers won't feel the pinch of losing Russell if their grand summer plan comes to fruition. Per several insiders, the Rob Pelinka-led front office is expected to pursue a third star via trade to pair with LeBron James and Anthony Davis ahead of the 2024-25 season. The likes of Donovan Mitchell, Trae Young and Kyrie Irving have been earmarked as possible targets for the Purple & Gold.

If the Lakers fail to land one of those stars, they could be forced to back up the brinks truck to retain Russell and run it back with the same roster.