Alex Caruso is one of the most elite defenders in the NBA, and has elevated the OKC Thunder with his electric display, especially in these playoffs.
He was traded for the OKC Thunder as part of a deal that saw the franchise give up previous first-round pick Josh Giddy to the Chicago Bulls.
A year later, both teams benefited from trade as Alex Caruso was able to lead the locker room on the side of the young lightning.
Many have given their verdicts on trade, including Patrick Beverly, who chose the Bulls as the winner.
However, former teammates of both players share his views on the deal.
Before moving to King Sacramento, Zach Labine spent eight years as a member of the Bulls team.
He was Caruso’s teammate for three years, then shared a locker room with Giddy for half a season.
The 30-year-old shared his thoughts on Caruso and how the deal was incredible for Thunder.
He said:
“I mean, what a trade upgrade when Chicago traded him for an OKC, a guy, was incredible.”
Giddey was also able to have a notable impact on the Bulls this season, but Caruso helped Thunder become one of the best defensive units in the NBA.
“After playing with him for three years, he’s one of the smartest guys. When he’s finished, he’ll be a great coach,” said Ravne when talking about what it’s like to be a Caruso teammate.
Magic Johnson recently cried out Caruso as he celebrated the lightning victory in the conference finals.
After a stint with the La Lakers, Caruso moved to the Bulls where he didn’t do much in the postseason, but the 31-year-old continues to show his defensive glow.
He managed to secure movement towards lightning afterwards. There he was one of the leaders and fixed their defenses.
Lavine, who was on the same team for three years with Caruso, shared what the players were like during the team meeting.
“When he was with us in Chicago, he’ll help us lead some of our meetings,” Labine said.
“Alex is a great athlete, but he’ll tell you first, he says, ‘I’m not an elite athlete.’ He’s just a man of heart and IQ.
Being a good defender requires a lot of effort, some of which watches the film. This is said by Caruso regularly according to lavine.
“He’s studying a lot of films. I’ve seen him break guys’ games. I remember how he protected me. I’ve always given him a 38.
“AC is one of the best defenders in the NBA. I think he should have been his first defense, over and over,” Lavine added.