REPORTS: Franchise Darling Alex Caruso Might Finally Leave Lakers
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USA Today via Reuters
Apr 4, 2021; Los Angeles, California, USA; Los Angeles Lakers guard Alex Caruso (4) moves the ball against Los Angeles Clippers guard, Rajon Rondo (4) during the first half at Staples Center. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports
The LA Lakers have a star-studded lineup with LeBron James and Anthony Davis. But with two superstars in the roster, the Lakers’ had to compromise in other positions. For the 2020-21 seasons, the Lakers had a pretty shortened guard rotation with the likes of Alex Caruso, Talen Horton-Tucker and Dennis Schroder.
While Schroder and THT were score first guards, Caruso was a do-it all guard for the Purple and Gold. With his incredible tenacity and defensive skills, the 26-year-old became a pivotal member of the Lakers’ squad.
USA Today via Reuters
May 30, 2021; Los Angeles, California, USA; Los Angeles Lakers guard Alex Caruso (4) moves to the basket ahead of Phoenix Suns center Deandre Ayton (22) during the second half in game four of the first round of the 2021 NBA Playoffs. at Staples Center. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports
Coming from multiple G-League stints, ‘Carushow’ gained a reputation for being the ultimate team guy and even started in the 2019-20 NBA Finals. Given how impressive he has been for the Lakers, the 26-year-old is a fan favorite.
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Lakers in risk of losing Alex Caruso in free agency
Caruso has been exceptional in the last two seasons for the Lakers. A guard who understands his role and excels in his limited play time, the guard can be helpful in any team. While the Lakers were already top heavy with LeBron James and Anthony Davis, the Purple and Gold brought in another superstar in Russell Westbrook.
Westbrook certainly is the third star the Lakers need but it might come at a huge cost. With their trio set to earn over $120 million, the Lakers have to efficient with their signings might risk losing many of their young free agents like Caruso and Talen Horton-Tucker to name a few.
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Alex Caruso is expected to meet with several teams when free agency begins Monday afternoon, sources tell @billoram & @jovanbuha.
“There is belief he will have multiple options at the full midlevel exception of $9.5 million.”
More: https://t.co/LVCHidvUd0 pic.twitter.com/vLPpxqCfBU
— The Athletic (@TheAthletic) August 2, 2021
According to the latest reports by the Athletic’s John Hollinger, Caruso is willing to meet multiple teams for a new contract. With his performances, there is a real possibility that he might also be given a mid-level exception worth $9.6 million.
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Caruso’s market value has sky-rocketed over the last two seasons. Given how his stock has risen, the Lakers might have to dig deep if they want to retain their rotation specialist. But the Lakers right now are in desperate need of a shooter and might be willing to use the MLE on a knockdown shooter rather than Alex Caruso.
The Lakers certainly are taking some bold decisions this off season and with Caruso’s hefty price, a return to the Purple and Gold us highly unlikely. Will Lakers keep hold off their fan favorite guard?
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