
USA Today via Reuters
Sep 26, 2020; Lake Buena Vista, Florida, USA; Los Angeles Lakers guard Alex Caruso (4) celebrates with guard Danny Green (14) against the Denver Nuggets during the fourth quarter in game five of the Western Conference Finals of the 2020 NBA Playoffs at AdventHealth Arena. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports

USA Today via Reuters
Sep 26, 2020; Lake Buena Vista, Florida, USA; Los Angeles Lakers guard Alex Caruso (4) celebrates with guard Danny Green (14) against the Denver Nuggets during the fourth quarter in game five of the Western Conference Finals of the 2020 NBA Playoffs at AdventHealth Arena. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports
The Los Angeles Lakers won the NBA title led by their two superstars, Anthony Davis and LeBron James. But along with those two, there were many important contributors on the team as well. Rajon Rondo, Dwight Howard, Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, and Alex Caruso were all a big part of the Lakers’ success.
From being an internet joke a couple of years ago to being a solid role player, Caruso has come a long way. This is why he was in high demand for trades throughout the season.

USA Today via Reuters
Orlando, Florida, USA; Los Angeles Lakers guard Alex Caruso (4) celebrates with guard Kentavious Caldwell-Pope (1) after defeating the Miami Heat in game two of the 2020 NBA Finals at AdventHealth Arena. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports
Lakers’ assistant coach Mike Penberthy spoke to Lakers Daily about Caruso and how every team wanted him during trades.
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“Every time we wanted to do a trade in the offseason or before the trade deadline, every team wanted Alex Caruso,” Penberthy said. “He’s known throughout the league and respected throughout the league. I think his basketball I.Q. is really high,” he said. “His NBA skill set is very high. He’s an above-average athlete and he’s an excellent defender. That’s what makes him so good.”
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Alex Caruso: An LA Lakers hero
While Caruso may not be that talented to be remembered as a Lakers legend, his contribution, effort, and hard work will not go unrecognized. He will be remembered as a Lakers hero undoubtedly.
Many players become a joke on the internet, but Caruso has worked hard to make people realize he is much more than silly memes. He is a player who can be vital to a championship team, and he proved that during the 2020 Playoffs.
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With LeBron on the team, Caruso doesn’t have to focus on playmaking despite being the point guard. But he has shown that he has an eye for a pass. He is dangerous with his off-ball movement, slashing, and his workhorse defense. He isn’t a lockdown defender. But he is successful at neutralizing the best scorers, intercepting passing lanes, and contesting every shot in front of him.
From playing in the G-League a couple of years back to winning the NBA title with the Lakers, Caruso’s improvement has been noteworthy. He will be a vital part of the Lakers’ title defense in the upcoming season.
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