The Los Angeles Lakers have had quite a struggle-filled journey since their 2020 Championship run. They have been dealing with multiple injuries, inconsistencies, and terrible chemistry. For over two seasons after winning the title, the Lakers either couldn’t crack the playoff berths or failed to make it past the first round. During this time frame, the Lakers let go of a few great players who could’ve helped them win more games.
In 2021, they landed Russell Westbrook and tried to experiment with his versatility. Unfortunately, Mr. Triple-Double struggled to get his shooting percentages up which affected the Lakers’ as well. They looked incredibly sloppy on the floor and their superstars weren’t healthy. Midway through last season, Westbrook was traded to the LA Clippers. This deal ended up helping the Lakers bring pieces like D’Angelo Russell and Rui Hachimura by the end of the trade deadline.
The Lakers were able to somehow utilize these assets to grapple their way into the play-in tournament. Eventually, LeBron James and Anthony Davis helped push the Lakers beyond all expectations, ultimately reaching the Western Conference Finals.
Based on their post-season performance, Rob Pelinka made many more changes during the summer. The Lakers signed players such as Taurean Prince, Gabe Vincent, Cam Reddish, and most importantly, Christian Wood. But there is one player LA regrets letting go of.
The Lakers have expressed regret over Alex Caruso’s departure
A year after their 2020 Championship run, the Los Angeles Lakers did not re-sign point guard Alex Caruso. He was one of their strongest defensive assets but he chose to sign with the Chicago Bulls. Caruso was offered a four-year $37 million deal in 2021 which he accepted. He managed to become the Bulls’ best defender and earn an All-Defensive First-Team selection following the 2022-23 season.
An Eastern Conference executive revealed that the Lakers expressed deep regret soon after letting go of Caruso. The exec said, “The rumor around the Lakers was they regretted letting him go almost immediately after it happened. They knew that was a mistake. He’s not the same player now, but the Lakers are worried they don’t have enough of an edge. He could be someone who helps fix that.”
Lakers Could Seek Trade for Alex Caruso 👀
“The rumor around the Lakers was they regretted letting him go almost immediately after it happened,” the exec said. “They knew that was a mistake. He’s not the same player now, but the Lakers are worried they don’t have enough of an… pic.twitter.com/xFscuUC4UB
— BASKETBALL ON 𝕏 (@BasketballOnX) November 8, 2023
Last year, Caruso was involved in a trade scenario as the Bulls felt that he wasn’t doing them any justice. Chicago demanded two first-round picks in exchange for Caruso, which was a very bold demand for someone with such little market value.
Alex has only been averaging 6.4 points, 3.9 rebounds, and 2.5 assists per game. Even though his numbers aren’t great, the Lakers know what he’s worth. Alex has one more season left on his contract but the Lakers could snatch him before the trade deadline.