Eastern Conference Squad Expected to Go After Lakers' D'Angelo Russell This Summer

Could we see Russell make his way to Florida this summer?

The Los Angeles Lakers have a big summer ahead of them. For starters, superstar LeBron James can become an unrestricted free agent if he declines his $51.4 million player option. The Lakers will do all they can to keep him, whether he decides to sign or comes back by signing for a larger sum.

All eyes will be on James and his pending decision. However, the Lakers will have other issues on their plate, including their guard, D'Angelo Russell. Russell has the option to decline his player option as well.

If he happens to do so, that will make him an unrestricted free agent. Laker insider Jovan Buha believes one Eastern Conference squad will have their eye on the one-time All-Star.

"Orlando's the team," Buha said. "Orlando is the team that talking to people with the Lakers, talking to people outside the Lakers, Orlando is the team that probably gives them the most concern in terms of a potential suitor."

Four Orlando Magic guards will be free agents this offseason: Markelle Fultz, Gary Harris, Kevon Harris and Trevelin Queen. The Magic may need a veteran point guard on their roster, and Russell could be that guy.

Orlando is having one heck of a season. They are in prime position to secure a top-six seed in the conference and have a chance to host a first-round playoff series.

Russell could fit in seamlessly with a young and talented nucleus in Paolo Banchero, Franz Wagner, Jalen Suggs, and Wendell Carter Jr. However, the competition for D-Lo may be fierce.

Many teams could have their eyes on Russell if he finishes the season strong in the purple and gold.