A resurfaced podcast clip featuring Los Angeles Lakers point guard D'Angelo Russell sparked speculation on Wednesday when it went viral on X, claiming he criticized his recent benching. However, the clip was recorded on December 9th, before Russell was relegated to the second unit on December 23rd.

Russell's demotion followed a seven-game stretch where he averaged a meager 9.9 points per game with inconsistent shooting. In the podcast, Russell discussed his offensive style, emphasizing his need to be a playmaker to be effective. "If I can tap into pick-and-rolls and recognize how you're guarding me, it allows me to control the game," he asserted.

While many perceived this as a veiled shot at Coach Ham's decision, the timing clarifies it was a general expression of his preferred playing style.

Since his benching, the Lakers have flourished, compiling a 4-2 record compared to their 15-13 mark with Russell starting. The new lineup, featuring LeBron James, Anthony Davis, Austin Reaves, and 3-and-D wings Cam Reddish and Taurean Prince, provides better balance and defense while maintaining spacing.

Russell, embracing his sixth-man role, has averaged 11.3 points, 5.3 assists, and 2.0 three-pointers per game with improved shooting efficiency (47.1% from the field and 40.0% from three).

Ham's bench move seems to be reaping rewards, with the Lakers finding a winning formula without relying solely on Russell's scoring. Whether this signals a long-term solution or a tactical adjustment remains to be seen, but for now, the Lakers are humming with Russell thriving in his new role.