KEY POINTS

  • The LA Lakers are the top team in the Western Conference Standings
  • Lebron has led the charge for the Purple and Gold in terms of playmaking
  • The LA Lakers need a consistent facilitator as a backup for Lebron

The LA Lakers are currently ahead in the Western Conference with a 47-13 win-loss record. They are ranked first as the second-seeded LA Clippers are 5.5 games behind with the 42-19 standing. The Lakers have seen significant changes this season that has propelled them to a different level than they were last year.

The Lakers in the previous season failed to make the postseason while Lebron recovered from multiple injuries. He was shut down by the organization by the end of March of 2019 to allow his groin to fully heal. Now that he’s healthy, the addition of big pieces has pushed the Purple and Gold to new heights.

The young core the Lakers were always proud of was shipped away to the New Orleans Pelicans for the services of All-Star Anthony Davis. This proved to be pivotal for the Lakers, as Davis is known to be one of the best big men in the league. The former number one overall pick is now leading the team in scoring with 26.6 points per game.

Lebron, on the other hand, is being the team’s facilitator and playmaker. The King is still averaging 25.6 points and 7.8 rebounds per outing. But what stands out the most is his floor general skills as he’s tallying up double figures in assists with 10.7 a game.

But with the Lakers hoping for a deep postseason push, the team would eventually need help in the playmaking department. Their guards have their own issues in terms of this concern. Avery Bradley, although a phenomenal player, is known more for his perimeter defense. Rajon Rondo on another hand has seen limited minutes compared to when he was a star as a member of the Boston Celtics.

With the need for a second playmaking option, the Lakers can look at Alex Caruso for stepping up to the plate. The Carushow as he is fondly called has the ability to hype up the crowd with his effort on both ends of the court. Whether it’s a pass interception that leads to a fast break, or him taking it strong for a fancy finish, the Lakers faithful have trust in the Bald Mamba's ability.

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Alex Caruso celebrates after hitting three-point shot CBS Sports