Title: Thunder Secure Alex Caruso with 4-Year, $81 Million Extension
The Oklahoma City Thunder have made a significant move, locking in Alex Caruso with a four-year, $81 million contract extension. This deal, which represents the maximum amount the Thunder could offer Caruso, solidifies his place as a key piece in the team’s long-term plans.
Caruso’s extension comes as no surprise, given the Thunder’s clear intent when they acquired him. The team’s management, led by Sam Presti, has consistently praised Caruso’s contributions both on and off the court. This extension not only secures a valuable player but also adds another tradable contract to the Thunder’s arsenal, providing flexibility for future moves.
Caruso’s Impact on the Thunder
While Caruso’s overall season statistics might not jump off the page, his recent performances have shown why the Thunder were eager to secure his services. In his last ten games, Caruso has been shooting 37-40% from three-point range, a significant improvement from his early-season struggles. His defensive prowess remains elite, with opponents scoring just 0.5 points per possession against him, placing him in the 96th percentile league-wide.
Caruso’s versatility allows him to defend multiple positions effectively. He’s particularly adept at disrupting pick-and-roll plays and contesting jump shots, ranking in the 98th and 99th percentiles respectively in these defensive categories. This defensive impact, combined with his improving offensive output, makes Caruso a perfect complement to the Thunder’s young core.
Looking Ahead
The timing of this extension is crucial as it provides stability for both Caruso and the team heading into a crucial stretch of the season. With challenging games on the horizon, including matchups against top teams like the Clippers, Knicks, and Celtics, having Caruso locked in allows the Thunder to focus on on-court performance without contract distractions.
For more insights and a deeper dive into the Alex Caruso extension and its implications for the Thunder, tune into the Locked On Thunder podcast for this and much more.
Other Topics in Today’s Locked On Thunder Podcast:
- Review of last week’s games, including the tough loss to the Bucks
- Preview of upcoming games against the Wizards, Pacers, and Hornets
- Jalen Williams’ return from injury and its impact on the rotation
