10 Players Lakers may replace Gabe Vincent with by the trade deadline
By Tyler Watts
3. Alex Caruso
Could the Lakers bring back Caruso to solve their perimeter defensive issues? He got his first NBA chance in Los Angeles and quickly became a fan favorite. The 6’4 guard played outstanding next to LeBron James and helped the Lakers win the championship inside the bubble.
He left in 2021 after the Bulls offered him a four-year $36.9 million contract that Los Angeles was unwilling to match. Caruso improved in Chicago and made first-team All-Defense in 2023.
The 29-year-old would fill a massive hole in the backcourt. He is a stout defender who switches onto multiple positions. Caruso has made 36.8 percent from 3-point range for his career and can be used as a secondary creator. The Bulls missed the playoffs in 2023 and could be facing a total rebuild by the deadline. If so, Alex Caruso will be available.
He would be an upgrade over Gabe Vincent. The Lakers must monitor his minutes closely, but Caruso could be the 3-and-D wing plus that Los Angeles needs to make a deep playoff run. It would give them the freedom to trade D’Angelo Russell and let LeBron, AD, and Reaves cook when the games matter most.
The Bulls avoided a rebuild this summer, but things could go south quickly. If they decide to tear things down, Caruso will not be the only talent available.