The Los Angeles Lakers regretted letting Alex Caruso walk in free agency just minutes into Game 1 of the Western Conference Finals. The San Antonio Spurs raced out to a 7-0 lead to start the game, which forced the Oklahoma City Thunder to go to Caruso after just two and a half minutes. The 6’5 guard immediately responded with seven points on three of four shooting from the field and one steal in three minutes of action. They were right back in the game, and it was clear that Caruso is going to be a game-changer in this series.
The Lakers gave Caruso his first NBA shot in 2017. He spent four years in Los Angeles, including helping the purple and gold win the title in 2020. The 6’5 guard was a plus shooter and defender, but the Lakers decided to keep Talen Horton-Tucker over him in 2021. That move aged like milk as THT is out of the NBA.
Caruso made two All-Defensive teams with the Bulls before being traded to the Thunder. Fans know he played a key role in OKC’s 2025 championship. They’ve gone 8-0 to start the playoffs, including sweeping the Lakers. Fans know Caruso shines in the biggest moments, and he proved it again at the start of the conference finals.
The Lakers immediately regretted letting Alex Caruso walk in Game 1 of the WCF
Fans know Caruso wasn’t done. He had seven points in three minutes and was guarding Victor Wembanyama on the other end. The 32-year-old can take on any matchup and is happy spotting up on offense. He is the perfect 3-and-D option for any contender. Caruso proved it again to start the conference finals.
Everyone is expecting this to be the start of a legendary rivalry. The Thunder and Spurs are young teams that plan on dominating the next decade. Fans know superstars win rings, but it takes a strong supporting cast of role players to get over the hump. Caruso is again proving to be just the type of player every contender needs.
The playoffs teach teams plenty. Jalen Duren’s struggles have everyone questioning his value. The Lakers should be looking for winning players to flank Luka Doncic. They need Alex Caruso-types and more talent if they want to be a serious title threat.
Rob Pelinka built the 2020 championship roster. He needs to remember what worked. The Lakers had several 3-and-D options flanking LeBron James and Anthony Davis. He needs similar options around Luka. The only difference is finding a defensive anchor that isn’t a superstar like AD.
Alex Caruso made an immediate impact in the conference finals, and Los Angeles Lakers fans weren’t the least bit surprised. They knew he was special after he quickly earned LeBron James’ trust. It was the front office that let him walk. They regretted it ever since, and a fresh reminder was on full display to start in the Western Conference Finals.
It certainly won’t be the last time. Expect Caruso to play a key role in another title or two before he calls it a career. He is that impactful, and fans just got another glimpse.
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