2. Alex Caruso, Chicago Bulls
Of the former Los Angeles Lakers still playing at a high level in the NBA, few are as beloved by the fanbase as Alex Caruso. A tenacious defender who has become an effective three-point shooter, Caruso is everything the Lakers have needed in the three years since his departure.
Caruso is now entering the final season of his current contract with the Chicago Bulls, which means a trade to bring him back to Los Angeles may actually be a realistic dream.
Chicago has been firmly committed to a flickering vision since going all-in on the trio of DeMar DeRozan, Zach LaVine, and Nikola Vucevic. Despite the presence of intriguing supporting players such as Caruso, Coby White, and Patrick Williams, the Bulls have seen a decrease in win percentage across the past three seasons.
With Caruso, owed $9.89 million in 2024-25, approaching the final season of his current contract, Chicago may look to finally blow the roster up and begin their rebuild by hunting for draft compensation.
In terms of what Caruso would bring to the table, 2023-24 marked his second consecutive season earning All-Defense honors. It's a justified form of recognition, as the 6'5" guard compensates for his somewhat short wingspan by playing a physical, all-out style of defense.
Complemented by the fact that he shot a career-best 40.8 percent from beyond the arc on a career-high 136 three-point field goals made, Caruso is the epitome of what the Lakers need on both ends of the floor.
An aggressive pursuit of a potential trade would be wise for Rob Pelinka and Los Angeles as they look to maximize the championship window with Anthony Davis and LeBron James.