VIDEO: Steve Kerr Responds to D'Angelo Russell Trade and Questions the Initial Deal
By Sean Facey
The Golden State Warriors' acquisition of D'Angelo Russell was always a confusing move, as there was arguably no room for him on a roster already featuring Klay Thompson and Steph Curry. Following Russell's departure to the Minnesota Timberwolves in a trade for Andrew Wiggins, head coach Steve Kerr spoke on the initial sign-and-trade that brought D-Lo to The Bay. It's safe to say, based on his comments, that he wasn't sold on the acquisition from the get go.
Steve Kerr on D’Angelo Russell: “To be blunt, the fit was questionable when we signed him (from a positional standpoint).” Full quote. pic.twitter.com/eKs89GSLQr
— Anthony Slater (@anthonyVslater) February 7, 2020
"To be blunt, the fit was questionable when we signed him," Kerr said while addressing the media on Friday, just a day after Russell was dealt.
Well, at least he's honest.
That's not to say Kerr doesn't think highly of Russell as a player, but it's pretty clear he didn't see the 23-year-old as a longterm fit on the squad.
"To wake up and see the situation that I’m in and feel the love of somebody wanting me to be here ... it’s a surreal moment for me right now."
— ESPN (@espn) February 7, 2020
—D'Angelo Russell on playing with Karl-Anthony Towns in Minnesota pic.twitter.com/iTh3rSZmrX
Russell averaged a career-high 23.6 points per game with Golden State, but despite his quality scoring numbers, the Warriors sit dead last in the NBA at 12-40.
Now playing alongside with his best friend Karl-Anthony Towns in Minnesota, Russell will look for yet another fresh start on what is now his fourth NBA team.