2019 NBA free agency tracker: Grades for every deal so far

Alex Caruso: 2 years, $5.5 million (Los Angeles Lakers)

The return of Rajon Rondo and the addition of Quinn Cook likely relegates Alex Caruso to the third string point guard role, but that actually makes this contract more valuable, since he’s a capable backup. The Los Angeles Lakers need depth at every position, and Caruso is an underrated piece who can help if he earns minutes.

Last year, his second in the association, Caruso spent most of the year on a two-way contract, but proved himself when he finally earned some time of the floor for the Lakers. He posted 9.2 points and 3.1 assists in his 21.2 minutes per game, and though he only appeared in 25 contests for L.A., he shot a solid 44.5 percent from the field and a blistering 48 percent from 3-point range.

Caruso is no star in the making, but if Rondo proves to be a troublesome fit or Cook isn’t up to the challenge, Caruso could easily step in a provide a steady hand off the bench for a Lakers team with its eye on the Larry O’Brien Trophy next season.

Grade: B-