Lakers News: D'Angelo Russell Reveals Thoughts on NBA's New In-Season Tournament

The Lakers will be making their home debut tonight in the In-Season Tournament, as they get set to take on the Memphis Grizzles. They took down the Phoenix Suns on the road in their first game of the tournament, and a win against Memphis would go a long way inhelping them advance.

More players have seemed to be a fan of the tournament, likely due to the prize money that comes from winning it. But it does add some extra motivation for these early-season games as well.

And it seems that one member of the Lakers likes the tournament. Point guard D’Angelo Russell said that he is a fan of it and that it adds some excitement to everything.

“I’m excited for it. When we play, it’s a different feeling. You know it gives a playoff environment throughout the regular season so it’s good for the business.”

Per D'Angelo Russell

Players throughout have talked about the playoff feeling from the games, and this could make for better play all season long. If teams are in a mindset that all the games matter, it could bode well for when the actual playoffs come around at the end of the year.

As the Lakers prepare to host their first in-season tournament game tonight, D’Angelo Russell says he’s a fan of the new wrinkle, including the black uniforms LAL will debut that he says “spices it up a little bit” pic.twitter.com/uR7RXywr8L
— Dave McMenamin (@mcten) November 14, 2023

In addition to the added pressure that comes with the games deemed within the In-Season Tournament, all teams get new jerseys to wear as well. That is another added bonus for players, and they get to add another piece to their collection.

Each team always has a new court that they play on within their building, but this has seemed like the most challenging part so far. Many people haven't been fans of the new courts, and have complained about the designs.

⚡️ Our In-Season Tournament court ⚡️ pic.twitter.com/PRRAJZ3vnc
— Los Angeles Lakers (@Lakers) November 14, 2023

Hopefully, the Lakers can get the win over Memphis and start their group play with two straight wins. It will go a long way within their bracket, and the team seems ready to go.

Are you following us on Twitter, Facebook, YouTube or LA Sports Report yet? Join the conversation as we discuss the latest Lakers news and rumors with fans like you!