Is D'Angelo Russell playing tonight against Lakers? Latest on Brooklyn Nets point guard's availability (Jan. 17)

The Brooklyn Nets are set to face the LA Lakers on Friday, marking D’Angelo Russell’s return to Crypto.com Arena. Russell is not listed on the Nets’ injury report and will suit up against his former team. The one-time All-Star missed Brooklyn’s embarrassing 126-67 loss to the LA Clippers on Wednesday.

Russell has been managing a right shin contusion over the past few weeks. After being traded by the Lakers in late December, the veteran guard played three games for the Nets to begin 2025 before missing four straight games.

His last appearance came in the Nets’ 132-114 win over the Portland Trail Blazers on Tuesday. Russell logged 21 minutes but struggled with his shooting, finishing with 13 points on 3 of 11 from the field, including 3 of 6 from beyond the arc. He also contributed three rebounds, nine assists and four steals in the victory.

Friday’s matchup will be an emotional one for D'Angelo Russell as he takes the court against LeBron James and the Lakers. During his second stint with the franchise, the former Ohio State standout spent one and a half seasons with the Purple and Gold before being traded.

This season, Russell appeared in 29 games for the Lakers, averaging 12.4 points, 2.8 rebounds and 4.7 assists per game on 41.5% shooting from the field, including 33.3% from 3-point range.

Where to watch Brooklyn Nets vs. LA Lakers?

The Brooklyn Nets vs. LA Lakers game will take place on Friday at the Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles, California. The game will tip off at 10:30 p.m. EST (7:30 p.m. PT).

The Nets vs. Lakers game will be broadcast live on YES (local) and Spectrum SportsNet (local). The live streaming will be available on the NBA League Pass and Fubo TV app and website (regional restrictions may apply).