The Los Angeles Lakers need someone to step up in Rajon Rondo's absence, and they're hoping that Alex Caruso can do the job. Caruso is rejoining the Lakers after spending time with the South Bay Lakers, L.A.'s G League affiliate, per Bill Oram of The Athletic. Oram writes:

“Alex Caruso was on my redeye from LAX to Orlando. With Rajon Rondo out for up to five weeks following hand surgery, Caruso will be with the big club starting tonight vs. Magic. Caruso is in his second year on a two-way contract after playing in 37 games last year with the Lakers.”

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Caruso is a step down from Rondo, but he's not a bad option to have in this type of situation. As Oram states, Caruso played 37 games for the Lakers last season. He put up 3.6 points, 1.8 rebounds, and 2.0 assists in about 15 minutes per game. Expect Lonzo Ball to take on a bigger role with Rondo sidelined, but Caruso can definitely take some of the pressure off of Ball as well.

The Lakers even have the luxury of using LeBron James as the primary ballhandler for long stretches. James is at his best with the ball in his hands and it would be smart for Walton to lean on him without Rondo available.

The Lakers season started out slow, but they could be the hottest team in the NBA right now. They have won four straight and six of their last seven. After a 2-5 start had Lakers fans reeling, Walton's squad began to find their groove.