Once morning shootaround ended on Sunday, Lakers rookie point guard D’Angelo Russell walked off the practice floor at a normal pace. It became notable simply because he played only eight minutes in Friday’s loss against Oklahoma City before the Lakers decided to sit him.
All of which made Lakers coach Byron Scott optimistic about Russell’s playing status for when the Lakers (8-30) host the Utah Jazz (16-20) on Sunday at Staples Center.
“I think he’s okay,” Scott said.
Moments later, Lakers trainer Gary Vitti informed Scott that Russell had experienced more discomfort in his right ankle and will not play against the Jazz.