KEY POINTS

  • LeBron James reacts to Alex Caruso's misdemeanor case on social media
  • Caruso may be retained by the Lakers next season alongside Talen Horton-Tucker
  • Caruso could be part of a trade package if the Lakers will pursue another star player

LeBron James of the Los Angeles Lakers is someone who would rarely react to the news, especially if it involves a teammate.

However, it appears there was an exception to this case involving Alex Caruso.

James reacted to a tweet by popular sports social commentator and podcaster Josiah Johnson recently.

The four-time NBA champion is a fan of Johnson and ended up tweeting with a GIF that said: “straight cash money.”

With James having all the time in the world, the social media response was a rare one.

Under normal circumstances, James would be busy playing and leading his team in the playoffs.

But with the Lakers eliminated in the first round of the Western Conference, James had all the time in the world this time around.

As for his teammate, Caruso was arrested on Tuesday as he was boarding a flight for possession of marijuana and drug paraphernalia.

It was categorized as a misdemeanor charge, but the 27-year-old would, later on, be released on bond, ESPN reported.

Heading into free agency, Caruso is one of several players on the Lakers’ roster that could be dealt away.

He is set to become an unrestricted free agent, but the consensus is that he will be returning next NBA season.

Several teams have been linked to the backup guard, who has proven his worth in a purple-and-gold uniform.

Caruso is reportedly on the radar of the Cleveland Cavaliers alongside Talen Horton-Tucker, Cleveland.com reported.

Alex Caruso #4 of the Los Angeles Lakers
Alex Caruso #4 of the Los Angeles Lakers Getty Images | Ashley Landis - Pool

Getting either Caruso or Horton-Tucker would be tough for the Cavs or any other team.

Both have done their role each time they are called to action. However, money and more playing time could change all that.

If either gets a good offer, the Lakers may or may not match that pitch.

Despite the recent legal issue that Caruso experienced, it is unlikely to hurt his chances of landing a new offer from the Lakes or any other team for the 2021-22 season.

If not a direct transfer, there is a chance that he could be part of a package to a superstar that Lakers general manager Rob Pelinka and head coach Frank Vogel have on their wish list.

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