D’Angelo Russell He has struggled to establish himself in Dallas since moving to the Mavericks this offseason. Considered a substitute for the injured Kyrie IrvingThe defender was expected to start for the team, but his role has been far less than expected.

Although the guard has stayed healthy for much of the year, he has started just five games for the Mavericks, averaging a career-low 19.0 minutes per game. With the trade deadline two days away and Dallas exploring their options, Russell may be forced to look elsewhere.

DLo’s contract is team-friendly after signing a two-year, $11.6 million deal with the Mavericks, and a move could be imminent as several teams look to bolster their rosters.

With that said, here are the top three trade destinations for D’Angelo Russell.

D’Angelo Russell’s top three trade destinations

#1.Milwaukee Bucks

The Milwaukee Bucks are in a dangerous position. Ranked 12th in the Eastern Conference with a record of 18 wins and 29 losses, the future is full of uncertainty. Giannis Antetokounmpothe team may begin a comprehensive rebuild.

While recouping draft capital will be their top priority if they move a star, Milwaukee also needs to stabilize its backcourt. D’Angelo Russell could fill that need, bringing experience and leadership on a team-friendly contract that benefits both parties.

The challenge, however, is finding a viable return player dallas mavericksespecially if the Bucks fully commit to rebuilding.

#2.Houston Rockets

The Houston Rockets are one of the best teams in the NBA on both ends of the floor this season and have a great scorer Kevin Durant. However, they do have a huge gap at point guard, with Fred VanVleet still recovering from a preseason ACL injury.

Houston could look to D’Angelo Russell as a short-term solution to their woes. Their offense has dropped dramatically in recent weeks, averaging 25.0 assists per game, the lowest in the league. Russell, meanwhile, is averaging 4.0 assists per game despite limited playing time and appearances, and he could provide the organizational spark as the Rockets take a step forward in the playoffs.

#3. brooklyn nets

The Brooklyn Nets continue to rebuild this season and have one of the youngest rosters in the league. While that puts them in the bottom half of the Eastern Conference, they’re still one of the most exciting teams and could use some experienced players.

D’Angelo Russell fits that profile perfectly, and he’s been outstanding in Brooklyn. In his previous season with the Nets in 2024-25, he averaged 12.9 points and 5.6 assists in 29 games, and the Nets may get similar returns in the backcourt this season.