SAN ANTONIO, TX – Basketball is far too nuanced a sport to isolate the reason for a run-down to one factor, but it’s becoming quite difficult to ignore the run the Los Angeles Lakers have made since JJ Redick D’Angelo Russell moved to the couch. The decision came after months of planning and ample communication, and when a good process is rewarded with success, there is more focus on the process.

Russell deserves credit for accepting this role and, more importantly, for thriving in it. Sources say there was some commotion, but nothing more is to be expected than when a lifelong player is asked to do something so different, especially after the season he had last year.

After a 120-115 win over the San Antonio Spurs, Anthony Davis was asked about the success the Lakers have enjoyed since Russell’s move to the bench. He credited Russell for his approach to the change, as well as other teammates who have seen their roles change due to injuries, rotation choices or any other reason.

“It’s about everyone trusting the process and accepting their role,” he told reporters. “You know, D’lo hasn’t had any setbacks. He’s still coming out and producing, so clearly very professional of him. Professional from Cam (Reddish), but it speaks volumes about our unity, how we are together and no one cares…if they start or end a game. It doesn’t matter as long as we win.”

Sources say many in the locker room are deeply impressed with Redick’s execution of this plan and Russell’s acceptance of this change.

Despite some shooting issues early in the year, Russell’s statistically one of the most impactful players on the roster. This season, the Lakers are 8.2 points better per 100 possessions when he’s on the court, and 12.1 points per 100 worse when he’s on the bench.

During this winning streak and since he came off the bench, they are 19.9(!) points per 100 better when he is on the field, and 5.4 points worse per 100 when he is off.

Now, with such small sample sizes, you’re obviously going to see some big swings, but Russell having such an impact even while shooting a paltry 32.9% from three might indicate that those impact numbers will stick around to some extent. as long as he stays focused on what those units need from him.

The formula is relatively simple. Russell is a very good offensive point guard. He understands the rhythm of the sport and keeps the system running. He did that for nine years as a starter. In a starting group with Davis, Austin Reaves and LeBron James, those skills are not as necessary.

Against bench units and the lower defensive line, not only is his own defensive concerns less damaging, he can absolutely help the formations he leads feast.

When he is on the court, the Lakers are scoring 128.5 points per 100 possessions. Among Lakers who have played at least 100 minutes, Russell’s offensive rating on the court is the highest. Only Dalton Knecht’s rating of 127.6 comes close. When the two are on the court at the same time, the Lakers score an insane 132.3 points per 100 possessions, the second-highest of any combination in the NBA that has played at least 100 minutes together.

This is what it looks like when a player gets the perfect role for him and his team. Russell’s offensive impact is maximized, his defensive concerns are addressed, and if Redick notices his focus or energy waning, Russell is removed from the game.

Will Lakers end up trading D’Angelo Russell?

Where it gets tricky is what this all means for the Lakers’ continued intention to trade Russell. On the one hand, teams around the league may be more interested now that he has taken over this role and is flourishing in it. On the other hand, trading one of your most statistically impactful players is quite difficult.

Speaking to sources close to the Lakers, Russell playing this role well might make them a little more reluctant to part ways with him as the bench unit has seriously struggled with Gabe Vincent at the helm. If this is truly who Russell can be for the rest of the season, the Lakers might get even choosier about who they trade him for, or look for a more reliable option than Vincent as part of a Russell trade.

According to league sources, Russell’s market was quite concerning after this season. He had already taken a pay cut two years ago and had to opt for his player option this summer. Had he played this season without any apparent change in his play or approach, some around the league have wondered whether he would have received a full mid-level offer, pointing to the contracts signed by Tyus Jones, Gary Trent Jr. and others signed this summer.

If Russell thrives in this role now and is willing to accept it in the future, sources say a number of more teams could be interested in signing him as a sixth man this summer.

For now, though, the focus remains on executing this plan and the others Redick has in store for the Lakers. He can now build on the success of this adjustment, with a team that believed in him even before this run.