2. Alex Caruso
Coming into the season, Lakers fans were cheering for Alex Caruso to rise into an important role on this team.
After out-performing his two-way contracts the last two years, Caruso has become an integral part of Vogel’s rotation. His feisty defense and out-matched work ethic has been inspiring. Alex Caruso is even getting much deserved recognition from LeBron James.
If there is one downside to Alex Caruso’s season thus far it is his inconsistent perimeter shooting. Following an impressive (yet completely unsustainable) 48% shooting from beyond the arc last season, the Bald Mamba is sitting at just 35.3%. One would expect his efficiency to decrease this season thanks to his expanded role, but once his confidence builds playing alongside two superstars, his percentages should see a rise.
The exciting thing about Alex Caruso’s game is that, even with his down shooting season, he is still one of the most important players on this roster.
On nights where the Lakers appear to be sluggish, Caruso helps provide that burst of energy needed to grind out a victory. His defense has been stifling all season long.
According to NBA.com, of the players in the normal rotation, Alex Caruso has the second highest defensive rating on the team allowing just 96.3 points per 100 possessions, only behind Jared Dudley (on a much smaller sample size).