D'Angelo Russell's addition to the Washington Wizards has arguably been the most overlooked part of the team's Anthony Davis acquisition.
Considering the former No. 2 overall pick has yet to join the team, it makes it easy to understand why that's the case.
Russell joined the Dallas Mavericks this offseason hoping that a change of scenery would give him the opportunity to revamp his career and play a vital role for the Western Conference hopefuls.
However, between the team's inconsistent start to the season, Davis' early injuries and the decision from Kyrie Irving to eventually postpone his return to action until next season, it became clear quickly that the Mavs' weren't close to competing in the West.
As a result, the Mavericks moved quickly to offload Davis ahead of the NBA trade deadline; a move that directly impacted Russell.
D'Angelo Russell & Wizards discussed buyout
After joining the Wizards, Russell and Washington's front office worked to find a solution that made sense for both sides.
At 30, there's no doubt that the veteran guard doesn't exactly fit the direction the rebuilding Wizards are heading in.
Based on his contract, desire to play for a contender and no clear role in Washington, it seemed like a buyout was the most likely scenario ahead of the March 1st deadline.
Nonetheless, the lack of external interest in the newly acquired Wizard made the likelihood of a buyout unlikely, especially as the deadline approached.
With Russell officially remaining in Washington past Sunday's hard deadline, the next chapter of his career has become crystal clear, whether fans like it or not.
Russell will remain with the Wizards
As mentioned above, the deadline for buyout candidates to be playoff-eligible was March 1st.
Obviously, Washington and Russell can still agree to go their seperate ways, but with the playmaker not being eligible to suit up in the postseason, it wouldmake that move pointless.
All that to say, every sign points to Russell staying put and finishing the season out with the Wizards.
Averaging 10.2 points, 4.0 assists and 2.3 rebounds, while shooting 40.5% from field goal range and 29.5% from beyond the arc, there's no doubt that Russell can contribute if head coach Brian Keefe opts to give him minutes alongside the young core.
And with general manager Will Dawkins making it clear that the plan is still for Trae Young and Anthony Davis to play at some point down the stetch, it wouldn't be a shock to see Russell see some run too.
Nonetheless, his fit in the DMV beyond this season is extremely unclear and for fans who aren't in favor of his fit long-term, they may not have to worry about him staying put for very long.