An NBA executive believes the Los Angeles Lakers could acquire Alex Caruso from the Chicago Bulls.
One Eastern Conference exec told Sean Deveney of Heavy Sports that the Lakers regret letting Caruso go in the summer of 2021, so much so that the team could look to reunite with him this season.
“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.”
Caruso signed a four-year, $37 million contract with the Bulls in August 2021. The guard, who helped the Lakers win the 2020 championship, is making $9.4 million this season.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Alex Caruso, Los Angeles Lakers, Chicago Bulls Updates
“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 appeared in 67 games for the Bulls last season. He averaged 5.6 points, 2.9 rebounds, 2.9 assists and 1.5 steals while shooting 45.5% from the floor, 36.4% from 3 and 80.8% from the foul line. Caruso made the NBA All-Defensive First Team.
The 29-year-old Caruso is averaging 6.4 points, 3.9 rebounds, 2.5 assists and 1.4 steals this season. The Bulls could embark on a rebuild if they don’t have a winning record near the trade deadline in February.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Alex Caruso, Los Angeles Lakers, Chicago Bulls Updates
Caruso had a good relationship with Lakers stars LeBron James and Anthony Davis. It will be fascinating to see if the purple and gold reunite with Caruso, who has career averages of 6.0 points, 2.7 rebounds, 2.7 assists and 1.2 steals.
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