Alex Caruso being soon a free agent, the Lakers will naturally try to retain him. If the mission fails, the front office already has another backup plan, but be careful, because the competition is there.
Obviously disappointed with their premature elimination in the playoffs, the Lakers will have to find a way to react. It starts with a good free agency, because there will be a lot of players available. Andre Drummond, Dennis Schroder or Alex Caruso will all be on the market, free to sign elsewhere if they choose.
As often in this kind of situation, money will rule. The Angelinos will be able to make financial efforts for some, but not for all. Rob Pelinka will therefore have to be smart, and prepare for all scenarios, including the worst. We were talking about a big cleaning in the coming weeks.
So if Caruso leaves, which should be coveted for this summer, we have to plan a back-up plan to solidify the bench. According to information from Evan Massey, a name is actively coming back in California, it is TJ McConnell, who has just spent a new season on the floor of the Pacers.
Report: The Lakers are expected to target TJ McConnell in free agency, via @massey_evan. pic.twitter.com/u0ROkYQeTZ
— Hoop Central (@TheHoopCentral) June 11, 2021
The Lakers are expected to target TJ McConnell during the free agency.
The leader is 8.6 points and 6.6 assists on average during this season. Good statistics, and a real boost when leaving the bench. But as we said, the competition is there according to Chris Fedor:
Any list of free agents should start with Alex Caruso and TJ McConnell. Both are on the Cavs roster. Some prefer Caruso because he is younger and can defend multiple positions. Other McConnells, who would be more apt to be a starter, to attack the circle and he was the leader in interceptions.
It looks like Cavaliers and Lakers will be fighting for the same players in free agancy, but they won’t be the only ones. It promises, and TJ McConnell and Alex Caruso will have no trouble finding a new team if needed.
