Lakers Could Seek Trade Reunion With $37 Million Guard

The Los Angeles Lakers may have to adjust their roster again and the franchise has been advised to trade for a top guard. It will actually be a reunion for both parties. This is just a rumor, but we all know that rumors sometimes become reality.

According to one executive, the Lakers could be the next destination for Chicago Bulls guard Alex Caruso. He was on the championship winning team in 2020 and knows the system really well. Moreover, Caruso has a strong fanbase in Los Angeles and a lot of people would be happy to see him put on a Lakers jersey.

The Lakers had a chance to keep Caruso, but he signed a four-year deal worth $37 million in 2021.

“The rumor around the Lakers was they regretted letting him go almost immediately after it happened,” one Eastern Conference exec told Heavy Sports. “They knew that was a mistake. He’s not the same player now, but the Lakers are worried they don’t have enough of an edge. He could be someone who helps fix that.”

Lakers would have to trade a first-round pick to get the guard

The Bulls don’t look really good right now. If they decide to reshape the roster, the front office may place Caruso on the trade block. If they do trade him, his next suitor will have to send a first-rounder to Chicago.

“They wouldn’t give up a (first-round) pick but they could give up (Jalen) Hood-Schifino and another contract if they wait until December 15. Or Max Christie, he has some value,” the executive said. “They’re not giving up a pick but they have young guys they can put up there.”

Caruso’s stats are not crazy, but he has attracted the attention of several teams. Will other teams try to get him? He is an excellent contributor and a winner. LA needs a winner right now.

“Coveted is a good word for him. If you want to make a trade tomorrow they could trade Alex Caruso,” the executive told Heavy Sports. “Half the teams in the league would be there with an offer. There’s a lot of teams monitoring that situation and they’re looking at Caruso more than anyone on that roster. Just a matter of when the Bulls are ready to make changes and ready to let him go.”