Lakers: Why Dennis Schroder should be removed from starting 5
By Jason Reed
2. Alex Caruso fits nicely in the Los Angeles Lakers’ starting five
This is the starting point guard that Jonathan wants to see the Los Angeles Lakers run out and I have to say I agree with him. From an Xs and Os standpoint, considering what we already mentioned about Schroder, it makes a lot of sense for Caruso to be starting in the playoffs.
The best point guard to have with LeBron James in the starting lineup is a point guard that does not need to take the ball up the court. That is why Avery Bradley was successful with the Lakers during the season last year.
Caruso fits that mold. Caruso is not a sharpshooter or elite passer but he is someone who is going to play elite defense and win nearly every single hustle play. He is someone who is going to fully commit to off-ball movement and opening up the floor for his teammates without needing to take looks himself.
He has the best trait a point guard can have: unselfishness. Sure, most point guards express that in passing the ball, but Caruso can express it in another light.
Caruso’s defense is going to be pivotal for the Los Angeles Lakers in the playoffs and it is important to make sure he is helping guard the likes of Chris Paul, Stephen Curry, Damian Lillard, Donovan Mitchell and Kawhi Leonard instead of primarily guarding the second unit.
It might make more sense to let Schroder do his thing in the regular season, but when the games really matter, Caruso is a much better fit alongside LeBron.