Kendrick Perkins calls for Lakers to trade D'Angelo Russell

Russell's second spell with the Lakers has been blighted by cold stretches. As the third star in the rotation, he needs to have consistency in his offensive output. Darvin Ham won't be tasking Russell with being a primary scorer or playmaker. Instead, he's a release valve when the defense hones in on LeBron James and Anthony Davis. He's relied upon to be a consistent threat. 

The Lakers have been linked to a potential trade for Zach LaVine in recent weeks. Part of the appeal that LaVine brings is that he's more consistent on offense and has a skill set that is better suited to being a tertiary star. Russell can be just as impactful as LaVine in a similar role. However, he will need to continue evolving his game to be a better supporting player rather than coming into games with the mindset of a primary option, which leads to ill-timed and low-quality shots. 

Russell is a high-level guard, but he needs to prove he can be part of a rotation. When you play for the Lakers and play alongside LeBron, you have to excel within the confines of your role. It appears that is a difficult lesson Russell is still learning.