The Los Angeles Lakers were eliminated from the NBA playoffs weeks ago, but that didn't stop the franchise from making headlines thanks to comments from one of the Oklahoma City Thunder's key veterans following his team's win over the Indiana Pacers in Game 7.
Former Lakers guard Alex Caruso played a big role in Oklahoma City's victory over Indiana on Sunday night, finishing the 103-91 victory with 10 points, three rebounds, three steals, and one blocked shot in 32 minutes of action.
As talented as the Thunder proved to be this season, Caruso was the only rotation player who had any semblance of NBA Finals experience, going back to his championship run with Los Angeles during the 2020 bubble playoffs. That memory was something Caruso touched on after laying claim to his second NBA championship.
Alex Caruso Takes Playful Jab at LA After Winning NBA Championship
Lakers fans have heard all of the attempts to discredit the championship the franchise won during the 2019-2020 season, when the postseason had to be held at the Disney Wide World of Sports complex in Orlando, Florida, due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
These outrageous claims have certainly not been forgotten by Caruso. He took a moment to call out those fans and pundits alike while speaking with the media following Game 7. As you can see from the clip below, Caruso made sure to point out that no one could say anything to him about that 2020 title ring he proudly owns now that he has a "real one."
I had 3 beers already, it’s SARCASM!!
— Alex Caruso (@ACFresh21) June 23, 2025
-two time https://t.co/coxn1bDpKp
Caruso was quick to get ahead of any unneeded controversy by clarifying on social media that he was being sarcastic toward all those who claimed what he and Los Angeles achieved in the Disney bubble shouldn't be looked upon the same as a title won during a traditional postseason.
I don't need to explain to fans of the Purple and Gold just how ridiculous those claims were at the time and remain today. It isn't worth rehashing all those arguments, as they weren't worthwhile then and sure aren't in 2025.
This clip and the corresponding tweet from Caruso show that he hadn't forgotten those criticisms, however, and he seemed to thoroughly enjoy putting those detractors in their place on Sunday night.