D’Angelo Russell has transformed into a sharpshooting three-point specialist this season and he has credited a specific technique for his success. Now in his ninth season in the NBA, Russell is shooting a career-high 42.3 percent from beyond the arc. His ability to catch-and-shoot has significantly improved, leading to NBA reporter Michael Corvo noticing an interesting practice routine during a recent Lakers session. Russell was purposely asking for poorly thrown passes from the trainer during shooting drills.

Could this unorthodox approach be the key to his impressive shooting this season? "Once I realized I wasn't going to improve as an individual player," Russell shared with Corvo, "I've learned where my shots will come from after eight to 10 years in the league. By studying numerous game tapes, I recognize the shots that I rarely get. I focus on things that I can control and where I anticipate taking my shots. When I receive difficult passes, there's a moment where I say to myself 'you can still make it' or 'this pass was not ideal,' but that slight distraction either stops me from taking the shot or pushes me to attempt a challenging one.

" This approach seems to be paying off, as Russell is converting an impressive 44.2 percent of his catch-and-shoot three-pointers. "Whether it's a good pass or a bad pass, I'm already comfortable because I've practiced extensively with inaccurate passes," Russell explained. "Many shooters prefer perfectly aligned seams on the ball, but I know that I can shoot off the dribble and handle tough passes.

Shooting off the dribble never guarantees perfect seams, so you have to trust your body and technique. I have the utmost confidence right now, and it's working well for me." In Monday's 136-105 victory over the Hawks, Russell tied the season record for most three-pointers made (183) - a record previously held by Nick Van Exel in the 1994-95 season. Russell will strive to break this record in the upcoming game against the Philadelphia 76ers on Friday.