During a recent appearance on ESPN’s First Take, Lakers legend and Hall of Famer Magic Johnson revealed that he pushed hard behind the scenes to convince the organization to retain Caruso.

Magic Johnson Gave Lakers Clear Warning Before Critical Alex Caruso Decision originally appeared on Athlon Sports. The Oklahoma City Thunder acquired Alex Caruso from the Chicago Bulls in the 2024 ...

Congratulations former Laker and NBA champion Alex Caruso who now plays for the Oklahoma City Thunder and is headed to the NBA Finals! — Earvin Magic Johnson (@MagicJohnson) May 29, 2025 ...

Caruso has averaged 9.5 points, 2.7 rebounds, 2.5 assists, 1.7 steals and 0.5 blocks per game in the playoffs while shooting 43% from beyond the arc. He is the kind of elite 3-and-D player that ...

Magic Johnson says he told the Lakers to keep Alex Caruso after losing KCP. (via @FirstTake, h/t @Klutch_23) pic.twitter.com/1dvCHuY7FE — Legion Hoops (@LegionHoops) June 12, 2025 ...