Los Angeles Lakers: 5 bold predictions post All-Star Break

 4. Alex Caruso is moved into the starting lineup

Alex Caruso is arguably one of the three most important players on the Lakers. At this point, he is, without question, the most impactful member of the Lakers’ backcourt.

Caruso, whether he ends up starting or not, will be part of the Lakers’ best lineup. In this scenario, he is being slotted into the first five, replacing Avery Bradley. Bradley has been good recently, specifically shooting from distance. On the other hand, he continues to struggle with the ball in his hands and is a declining defender.

Alex Caruso has been one of the best Lakers defenders, posting a 100.8 defensive rating. For reference, Bradley’s is 105.5, per NBA.com.

The Lakers are just a better team when Caruso is on the court, outscoring opponents by more than 10 points per 100 possessions in those minutes. That mark is the second-highest on the team, behind only LeBron James.

Hopefully, Coach Vogel can recognize this needed change before the postseason, Alex Caruso belongs in the starting lineup.