Since he got back into the starting lineup, D’Angelo Russell has been at a whole new level, and the Los Angeles Lakers are enjoying it. Russell has been amazing lately, averaging 27.2 points, 6.4 assists, and an insane 53.7% from three-point range over the last five games. He gives LeBron James and Anthony Davis the offensive help they need with the starters.

He’s not going to stay this hot for the rest of the season, but this stretch shows why the Lakers believe in Russell and how well he fits in with the team. His 3-point shooting is very important for the Lakers, who have had trouble making shots from beyond the arc. LeBron and the rest of the team are trying to feed him while he’s hot.

Russell scored 34 points and made six 3-pointers against the Portland Trail Blazers. LeBron talked about the guard’s recent great play, mentioning how aggressive he is and how his ability to make shots helps the whole system.

“Just being aggressive and looking for his shot,” James said about Russell’s great run of play. “We’re still trying to find him, especially in the move when the defense isn’t paying attention and he’s behind.” His shooting speed is very high right now, which is great for our attack.

Russell is known for making heavy 3-pointers like those from behind the basket, which gets the home crowd on their feet and the other team hard. When Russell is at his best, he can help the Lakers’ two-star players score and make plays while also setting them up for easy baskets.

James knows that Russell is very skilled, even though he has some problems. “I mean, it’s clear what skills he has,” LeBron said. “He moves the ball around very quickly and without much thought, but he’s always trying to throw people off with his game.” It moves too slowly or too quickly. Men are thrown off by him.

“That change of pace move was cool.” He faked the behind-the-back move with me to wrap it around to himself and lay it up in transition. We got 35 fastbreak points with that. “That was sick.”

He faked a backward pass and then lobbed the ball to LeBron, who slammed it after bouncing it off the ground. These were two of the best plays in the rout. This season, Russell has finally found his groove, which is great for the Lakers.