What happened: D'Angelo Russell has opted in to his $6 million player option for the 2026-27 season, Jake Fischer reported Friday. The 30-year-old guard joined the Wizards on Feb. 5 as part of a midseason trade. The decision keeps him under contract rather than testing free agency.

Why it matters: Picking up the option locks Russell into a rebuilding Washington roster and gives the franchise another year of low-cost veteran control at the guard spot. For a team in transition, his expiring deal becomes a movable piece and a steady veteran presence for younger players.

What to watch: Watch whether Washington keeps Russell as a rotation guard or shops his expiring contract ahead of the season.