The one that got away. That will forever be the tag linked to Alex Caruso when the Los Angeles Lakers think about him.

The moment he joined the Chicago Bulls in the offseason, Caruso instantly became a beloved figure in the Windy City. There's no questioning how hard he plays, but many admire the hardnosed guard for being a smart player and a voice of reason in the locker room.

After the Bulls defeated the Milwaukee Bucks in Game 2 of their first round series in the NBA Playoffs, the former Lakers spark plug volunteered to talk to his teammates and remind them to stay even-keeled ahead of Game 3 (via Bulls Twitter).

“They (Bucks) automatically have the advantage right now. Human nature effect. We win, they lose, they're gonna be the hungrier team just naturally, right? Enjoy it (the win). Learn from it. Get back to the same mentality.”

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While it's Caruso's first stint with the Bulls, it's clear that he's already a well-respected figure. After all, he knows how to win, helping the Lakers capture the NBA title in 2020 with his dogged, high IQ approach.

In their win against the Bucks in Game 2, he finished across-the-board norms of nine points, two rebounds, 10 assists, two steals, and two blocks. That's a familiar line he got in his last season with the Lakers, and the Bulls fully acknowledged his value.

The Lakers sure needed another leader this season, and Caruso could've filled that role.