
USA Today via Reuters
Dec 5, 2023; Los Angeles, California, USA; Los Angeles Lakers guard Austin Reaves (15) reacts after scoring three point basket against the Phoenix Suns with forward LeBron James (23) and forward Anthony Davis (3) during the second half of the In Season Tournament quarterfinal at Crypto.com Arena. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports

USA Today via Reuters
Dec 5, 2023; Los Angeles, California, USA; Los Angeles Lakers guard Austin Reaves (15) reacts after scoring three point basket against the Phoenix Suns with forward LeBron James (23) and forward Anthony Davis (3) during the second half of the In Season Tournament quarterfinal at Crypto.com Arena. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports
With the trade season looming, rumors have intensified about a potential new addition to the Los Angeles Lakers. The Atlanta Hawks guard Dejounte Murray has been an ongoing top name in the mix. According to speculation, Murray checks off all the boxes the Lakers are eyeing at the moment.
With great scoring abilities, conditioning to being a role player, athletic fundaments, and defensive improvements, the Lakers are in pursuit of the guard. However, another intriguing development has emerged – a familiar face and former Lakers player has expressed his desire for a thrilling comeback.
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Alex Caruso is interested in making a comeback
Alex Caruso, who played a pivotal role in the Lakers’ 2020 championship run during his four-year stint, has recently voiced his interest in returning to the purple and gold. After leaving the franchise for a better deal with the Chicago Bulls, Caruso has shown significant improvement in being a reliable role player. So, when he was probed to reflect on the “what ifs” surrounding his departure from the Lakers, Caruso enthusiastically affirmed, stating, “Yeah, definitely.” He then attributed his overall growth as a player to the ambitious environment cultivated by the Lakers, adding an intriguing layer to the ongoing trade speculations.
Exclusive with Alex Caruso for @FOXSports. As the trade deadline nears, I asked one of the most sought after players if he has any “what ifs” about the Lakers.
“Yeah, definitely.”
— Melissa Rohlin (@melissarohlin) January 27, 2024
Adding to the Lakers’ collection of underdog stories, Alex Caruso arrived with a narrative slightly distinct from Austin Reaves. Due to concerns regarding his overall role on an NBA team, Caruso went undrafted in the league. However, with the introduction of two-way contracts by the league in 2017, the Lakers chose to give Caruso his entry into the league.
Read More – Lakers-Bulls Trade Update: Zach LaVine, DeMar DeRozan, and Alex Caruso Move to LA “Less Likely,” per Reports
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Can Caruso fit in with the Lakers?
Beyond his ability to shine in the clutch situations, Alex Caruso brings immense value to the court simply by being present. His off-ball movements seamlessly complement the team’s playmaking, enhancing rotation and facilitation. Renowned for his relentless court coverage and robust screen-setting tendencies, Caruso kick-starts the offense, creating opportunities for open looks.
During his time with the Lakers, despite a star-studded lineup, Caruso was fancied for his dependable secondary playmaking and overall defense. Furthermore, he logged significant minutes alongside LeBron James. Their partnership produced superior numbers compared to many players with more experience playing alongside James. With the established on-court chemistry with LeBron James, Caruso positions himself as a compelling candidate for the Lakers’ next addition.
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Currently enjoying career highs with the Chicago Bulls, Caruso is a standout performer on a team facing challenges. He is averaging 10.1 points on an impressive 49.1% shooting from the floor and 41.5% from beyond the arc. Furthermore, despite his size, he manages to contribute defensively, averaging a block per game.
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