D’Angelo Russell and the Grizzlies Already Looking to Part Ways

Barely settled in at Memphis, D’Angelo Russell could already be on his way out. According to Yahoo Sports, the Grizzlies and the 30-year-old point guard are jointly working to find him a new destination before the regular season tips off, either via a trade or a buyout.

DLo had joined Tennessee in early July as part of a massive six-team trade involving Milwaukee, Washington, Dallas, the LA Clippers and Detroit. The Grizz received Isaiah Stewart, AJ Johnson, three second-round picks, a first-round pick and a pick swap.

Grizzlies PG D’Angelo Russell is not believed to be a long-term piece in Memphis, sources tell @KellyIko.

Both sides are expected to work together toward a resolution that would allow Russell to find a new home at some point this offseason — whether via a buyout agreement or a… pic.twitter.com/RfAuCQ0K8n

— Yahoo Sports (@YahooSports) July 23, 2026

A Rebuild With No Room for Veterans

The issue is straightforward: Russell‘s profile simply doesn’t fit Memphis‘s direction. Following the departures of Jaren Jackson Jr. and Ja Morant, the Grizzlies have embarked on a deep rebuild centered around a very young core consisting of Cameron Boozer — the 3rd overall pick in the 2025 Draft —, Cedric Coward and Zach Edey. The first two impressed at the Las Vegas Summer League, with Coward averaging 19 points, 7 assists and 4 rebounds, while Boozer earned a spot on the All-Tournament First Team, with the Grizzlies even reaching the final.

Cedric Coward — best games

At 30 years old, Russell simply doesn’t fit into that timeline. Despite solid career averages (17 points, 3.3 rebounds and 5.6 assists), his recent seasons have been marked by inconsistency. Last season with Dallas, he played only 25 games, starting just three times before losing his spot in Jason Kidd‘s rotation to Ryan Nembhard and Brandon Williams. Traded to the Wizards before the February trade deadline, he never played a single minute in a Washington uniform.

Memphis also needs to manage an overcrowded roster, with 21 players currently under contract, including Javon Small and Jahmai Mashack on two-way deals. Russell‘s departure would help clear the logjam before the new season begins.

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What’s Next for the Former 2nd Overall Pick?

If no trade materializes, a buyout remains the most likely outcome. Russell, who activated the final year of his contract worth $6 million, would then become a free agent and could sign a veteran minimum deal with the team of his choice. Franchises such as the Miami Heat, the Golden State Warriors and the Denver Nuggets have been mentioned as potential destinations.

If D’Angelo Russell reaches a buyout agreement, the Miami Heat, Golden State Warriors and Los Angeles Lakers are all expected to express interest.

Sources indicate each team views Russell as a low-risk veteran option who could provide backcourt depth. pic.twitter.com/TEaOiaJc2z

— Owen Prescott (@Owen_Prescott) July 23, 2026

Drafted 2nd overall in 2015 by the Lakers, Russell has since worn the colors of the Wolves, the Nets, the Warriors and the Mavericks. He is potentially about to join his fourth franchise in the span of two years. Despite his recent struggles, his basketball IQ, versatility and experience — with more than 30 playoff games under his belt — should generate some interest on the market in a backup role.