Los Angeles Lakers: 3 players that could earn a big payday in the playoffs

Alex Caruso could earn a big payday with the Los Angeles Lakers in the playoffs

While he might not stuff the stat sheet nightly, Alex Caruso’s impact for the Lakers goes far beyond what his numbers indicate.

The fan-favorite is known for his high-energy play, providing a spark off LA’s bench most nights with his playmaking, shooting, and scoring ability. However, his most desirable attribute is his defensive presence, to which his head coach Frank Vogel recently pitched should be in consideration of earning Caruso his first All-Defensive selection. Via the Los Angeles Times’ Broderick Turner:

"“I think it’s worth mentioning that he has to be considered for All-Defensive team with the way he guards, the way he does everything on that side of the ball,” Vogel said on Zoom after the win. “So, to see him dominate on the defensive end and take control of our offense, to play on both sides, just proves his value to us. And he’s a big reason why we won a championship last year and he’s going to be huge for us in the playoffs this year.”"

That pestering presence on defense will earn Caruso a hefty share of minutes in the postseason/play-in tournament, and if he lives up to Vogel’s praise, he could be in the market for a raise. The 27-year-old will be an unrestricted free agent after the season, and he will likely have a handful of suitors looking to utilize his services. Luckily for the Lakers, they own the guard’s bird rights and seem like the ideal destination for him long term.

Another stellar effort in these playoffs could cement Caruso’s future in Los Angeles long term.