D’Angelo Russell talks Nets offseason, leadership role, NBA2K19

D’Angelo Russell spoke at the NBA2K19 launch event Wednesday about the upcoming season, offseason moves and NBA2K19. Here is what Russell had to say.

The NBA2K19 launch event was held Wednesday in Brooklyn. D’Angelo Russell of the Brooklyn Nets attended the event in advance of the popular NBA video game’s Sept. 11 release.

Others at the event were current NBA players Jayson Tatum, DeMarcus Cousins, Kemba Walker, Ben Simmons, Damian Lillard, Karl-Anthony Towns and Giannis Antetokounmpo, as well as former NBA MVP and future Hall of Famer Kevin Garnett, a former Brooklyn Net.

Russell got the chance to play the new NBA2K19 video game at the event.

@Dloading playing the new #NBA2K19 at the NBA2K19 launch event in Brooklyn, NY pic.twitter.com/pjQlMXLcgn
— Chris Milholen (@ChrisMilholen) August 29, 2018

At the event, Russell participated in a question-and-answer session and shared his thoughts on the upcoming season and NBA2K19.

How have you used the offseason to prepare for the upcoming 2018-19 NBA season?

"“Just trying to get into the best shape I can. Physically, the NBA season is brutal. I’m just trying to get in the best shape possible for the season.”"

Throughout the offseason, Russell has done a great job working out in the gym and gaining muscle. It is visibly noticeable the amount of muscle Russell has put on since the end of the 2017-18 season.

This muscle gain will have a great impact on Russell’s game especially when it comes to driving the ball. He will be able to absorb more contact driving and have an easier time scoring off drive plays in traffic.

The Brooklyn Nets have been active this offseason by bringing in new players, especially to their frontcourt. How do you think those additions will benefit Brooklyn Nets season?

"“I think it will be great. Like I said, we got some great veteran guys. I think our blueprint is set up for our guys to succeed. It will be all right.”"

Last season, the Nets frontcourt was weak and was targeted by other teams. By bringing in Ed Davis, Jared Dudley and Kenneth Faried, the Nets will have a stronger frontcourt presence on both ends of the floor.

Besides from the play on the court, Russell mentioned veteran guys. Davis, Dudley, and Faried are all veteran frontcourt players who are experienced.

The veteran leadership these three players can bring to the Brooklyn Nets will not just benefit the young frontcourt players, but all the young Nets and their play in 2018-19.

Throughout the offseason, you have been challenged to be the main leader of this Brooklyn Nets team next season. Your new teammate, Jared Dudley, talked about how you are best fit for the role and wants you to be the main leader.

How do you feel about being the main leader of the Brooklyn Nets next season and are you ready for that role?

"“I think so. I know the opportunity is right there. With veteran guys like that speaking out about it that just shows its up for me. I’m ready to attack that role.”"

Russell was a huge part of the Nets success in 2017-18. He was one of the most vocal players for the Nets, on and off the court, last season.

As Russell mentioned, how some veteran guys want him to be the main leader of the team shows not only the confidence they have in Russell, but how he is best fit for that role.

Aside from being the main leader of the Brooklyn Nets next season, what personal or team goals do you have for the upcoming NBA season?

"“I think to reach our full potential. We have a good group of guys, good group of veterans, I would say the sky is the limit.”"

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The 2018-19 season will be a very important season for the Nets franchise. The past two seasons for Brooklyn have been losing seasons, but they have shown constant improvement.

One main reason this season is an important season for the Brooklyn Nets is because of their 2019 free agency expectations. The Nets will have enough cap space for two max contracts if they choose to take that route.

With the opportunity to land two big-ticket free agents, Brooklyn has to show signs of winning and make a playoff chase in 2018-19.

As Russell said, the Nets have a good balance of players on their roster. The Nets have a good group of veterans and young talent.

If the Nets can show their full potential next season, it will not only increase their odds of a successful 2019 offseason, but put Brooklyn back on the map of winning NBA teams.

We are at the NBA2K19 launch event here in Brooklyn. You are the highest-rated Brooklyn Net in the video game. How do you feel about your 83 player rating?

"“I don’t really care to be honest with you. I figure out how to play with myself and I make it work.”"

Russell also commented on the Nets second highest-rated player, Spencer Dinwiddie.

"“He is nice on 2K.”"

Dinwiddie is rated a 79 in NBA2K19.

NBA2K19 will be released Sept. 11. There is a special edition that will be on the market Sept. 7, giving the buyer the opportunity to play the game before the full release and includes bonus content and specials. The special edition is priced at $99.99.