Oklahoma City Thunder guard Alex Caruso believes former teammate LeBron James remains fully capable of taking over a playoff contest, even at age 41.
Speaking to reporters before the Western Conference semifinal between the Thunder and Los Angeles Lakers, Caruso said facing James is “different” because the four-time MVP is “always ready for the moment.” Caruso added, “He’s still very capable of being the best player on the court any given night.”
Long-time chemistry turns into postseason matchup
Caruso and James built a strong on-court connection during the Lakers’ 2020 championship run. Now on opposite sides, the 30-year-old guard is part of the defensive rotation tasked with containing his former ally.
James already proving the point
James averaged 30.8 points in the first-round upset of the Houston Rockets and orchestrated the Lakers’ offense throughout the series. In Game 1 against Oklahoma City, a 111-105 Lakers loss, he led all scorers with 27 points on 12-of-17 shooting and handed out six assists.
Basketball IQ offsets lost explosiveness
Caruso acknowledged James has “lost a little athleticism,” yet cited the veteran’s intellect for creating mismatches and disrupting opponents. “He uses the game to his advantage a lot,” Caruso said.
Lakers missing Luka Doncic
Los Angeles continues to play without injured superstar Luka Doncic. After Game 1, James admitted Doncic’s absence complicates the offense but noted the team still generated quality shots.
The series resumes Thursday at Crypto.com Arena, where James and Caruso last shared the floor as teammates on February 9, 2026.
Source: Lakers Nation
