Memphis waives D’Angelo Russell after offseason trade

Grizzlies cut veteran guard after roster shuffle

ESPN’s Shams Charania reports that the Memphis Grizzlies have waived D’Angelo Russell, making the 30-year-old guard available to other teams ahead of the 2026–27 season. Memphis acquired Russell earlier this offseason as part of a multi-team deal, but decided to release him while trimming their roster.

Russell had already picked up a $5 million player option for 2026–27 before being moved from Washington to Memphis. With the Grizzlies waiving him, he’ll pass through the waiver process and could sign with a new team once he clears.

What this means for Russell and a quick career recap

This move gives Russell another opportunity to find a new landing spot before the regular season starts. A former No. 2 overall pick in the 2015 draft, he’s been around the league — including stints with the Lakers, Nets, Warriors, Timberwolves and Mavericks — and picked up his first All-Star selection in 2019 as an injury replacement.

Russell spent the 2025–26 season with the Dallas Mavericks, averaging 10.2 points, 4.0 assists and 2.3 rebounds in 26 games. Over his career he has posted averages of 17.0 points, 3.3 rebounds and 5.6 assists in 655 regular-season appearances, and he’ll now wait to see which team gives him the next opportunity.