The Los Angeles Lakers may be regretting their decision to let Alex Caruso leave in free agency. Minutes into Game 1 of the Western Conference Finals, the San Antonio Spurs raced out to a 7-0 lead, forcing the Oklahoma City Thunder to bring in Caruso after just two and a half minutes.
The 6’5 guard responded with seven points on three of four shooting from the field and one steal in three minutes of action. It was clear that Caruso is going to be a game-changer in this series.
Caruso’s Quick Impact and Lakers’ Previous Decision
The Lakers originally gave Caruso his first NBA opportunity in 2017. He spent four years in Los Angeles, helping them win the title in 2020. In 2021, the Lakers decided to keep Talen Horton-Tucker over him. That move has not aged well, as THT is out of the NBA.
Caruso’s Role with the Thunder
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.
- Caruso had seven points in three minutes.
- He was guarding Victor Wembanyama.
- He is happy spotting up on offense.
The 32-year-old can take on any matchup and is the perfect 3-and-D option for any contender. Caruso proved it again to start the conference finals.
A Potential Legendary Rivalry
Many expect the Thunder and Spurs to develop a legendary rivalry. These young teams plan on dominating the next decade. Superstars win rings, but it takes a strong supporting cast of role players to get over the hump. Caruso is proving to be just the type of player every contender needs.
Lessons for the Lakers
The playoffs teach teams plenty. 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.
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.