D'Angelo Russell is saving the Lakers from a risky dice roll

D'Angelo Russell has emerged as a genuine secondary or tertiary option for the Los Angeles Lakers offense. In his last 10 games, he's averaging 19.8 points, 5.4 assists and 3.5 rebounds. He's shooting 45.5% from 3-point range and 49% from the field. 

Earlier this season, it appeared that Russell's second tenure with the Purple and Gold would be short-lived. Trae Young is the name that has emerged as a potential trade target during the summer. However, Russell's recent uptick in production may cause Rob Pelinka to think twice. CBS Sports Sam Quinn recently shared why he believes Russell could save the Lakers from a major mistake.

"One could even argue that with James approaching his 40th birthday, finding a younger headliner is a necessity for life after LeBron," Quinn wrote on Friday. "But nothing that has happened to the Lakers since 2018 suggests that spending three first-round picks on another high-usage guard that doesn't shoot especially well from 3-point range would be a good idea. Russell might be the only player on the team that can save this front office from itself."

On paper, Young would be the ideal addition to the Lakers. He's a star name, an All-Star, and one of the better playmakers and perimeter scorers in the league. Yet, when you take a deeper look, you notice that his defense is a major issue, and his scoring can be incredibly streaky. Pelinka can't afford to spend the last slither of his team's tradable assets on a big swing that could backfire. 

Russell isn't a superstar. He is, however, a highly talented guard who gets better when he's in rhythm and feels trusted within the system. Darvin Ham has found a way to get the best out of him. Furthermore, he's already proven he can coexist with LeBron James and Anthony Davis. 

Trading for Young would be a risky roll of the dice. Russell is proving that Pelinka doesn't need to look at the guard position when he's attempting to upgrade the roster in the summer. Young's name may be attractive on paper, but the Lakers would be better served sticking to the guard they already have. They can't afford to take such a big risk without knowing the move will be somewhat of a success.

Quinn is right. Russell's uptick in production may have saved Pelinka from making a costly error.