Injury report: Alex Caruso and Javonte Green are questionable to play vs. the Los Angeles Lakers

The Chicago Bulls face off against the Los Angeles Lakers for the second time in a span of several days. Of course, they are looking to replicate the success they had at the Crypto.com Arena on Sunday, where they came away with a 118-108 win. However, it remains unclear whether defensive specialist Alex Caruso and reserve forward Javonte Green will be playing, which may hamper the Bulls' ability to defend the Lakers' skilled perimeter threats.

Injury-riddled

Caruso's averages of 5.7 points, 3.0 rebounds, and 3.0 assists may not impress casual fans, but his value to the Bulls, especially on the defensive end, goes far beyond the box score. The former Texas A&M star, though, has missed four of the last eight games due to a recurring foot injury.

Caruso's presence in the game versus the Lakers will be crucial as he would most likely draw the assignment of defending the likes of D'Angelo Russell, Austin Reaves, and even LeBron James. 

Chicago has also upgraded the status of Green to questionable. Should Green suit up, he would provide another spark on both ends of the floor, as his ability to disrupt opponents' offensive flow could prove vital for the Bulls' success.

Critical stretch

With the Washington Wizards two-and-a-half games behind the Bulls for the 10th spot and the final ticket to the Play-in tournament, Chicago has to stay focused and hold off a Lakers squad that will no doubt be looking to pay them back for the loss several days ago.