Alex Caruso, the only player on the Oklahoma City Thunder with a championship ring, has been one of the team’s standout contributors during their impressive playoff run. When the Thunder traded Josh Giddey to the Chicago Bulls last offseason in exchange for Caruso, many experts believed Oklahoma City had bolstered its roster.
Giddey, however, had an impressive regular season, posting averages of 14.6 points, 8.1 rebounds, 7.2 assists, and 1.2 steals per game. Caruso’s role was more limited, as he logged under 20 minutes per game for the first time since 2019-20.
Nevertheless, Caruso has proven to be invaluable in the playoffs, playing pivotal minutes and helping Oklahoma City reach the NBA Finals for only the second time in franchise history. Renowned for his defensive abilities — he’s a two-time All-Defensive team member — Caruso’s versatility in defending both perimeter players and big men has been lauded. But his impact hasn’t been confined to defense alone.
Offensively, Caruso has excelled as a passer and cutter while also shooting the ball exceptionally well from deep. In fact, he’s hit 41.5% of his three-point attempts in the playoffs (on 65 tries), the best mark on the team. This perimeter shooting has been crucial for the Thunder, a team that has generally struggled from three-point range during the postseason. Per Shotcreator, Isaiah Joe is the only other Thunder player shooting above 34% in the playoffs, and most of Joe’s minutes have come in low-stakes situations.
Caruso’s strong postseason showing isn’t a shock given his experience winning a championship with the Lakers. The 31-year-old has made an impact on both ends of the court, even taking on tough defensive assignments like guarding Nikola Jokic.
With an opportunity to earn his second championship this season, Caruso’s presence will be key in the Finals against the Pacers’ dynamic offense. If the Thunder’s defense can contain Indiana’s attack, Caruso might just secure another title to close out the 2024-25 campaign.
Earlier this season, Caruso signed an extension that keeps him in Oklahoma City through the 2028-29 season. It’s a full-circle moment for the veteran wing, who began his pro career playing for the Oklahoma City Blue in the G League alongside current Thunder head coach Mark Daigneault.
