The timing couldn’t be any better. Just a day after The Stein Line insider Jake Fischer asked him about the possibility of remaining with the Oklahoma City Thunder long-terms, ESPN senior insider Shams Charania has reported that the two-time All-Defensive selection Alex Caruso has agreed to a four-year, $81 million contract extension with the Shai Gilgeous-Alexander-led squad.
Caruso is among NBA’s elite perimeter defenders, ranking in top five in deflections, field-goal % allowed as contesting defender and points per direct pick allowed as ball-handler defender, per ESPN Research.
Deal keeps Caruso out of free agency, under contract through 2028-29. https://t.co/Ve6bCa5ZOs
— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) December 22, 2024
Acquired by the Thunder this offseason, Caruso has averaged a career-high 1.9 steals per game this season. The eight-year veteran hasn’t been himself from beyond the arc, shooting a career-low 27.0 percent from three-point range. However, he’s shooting 37.5 percent from deep in December, so it’s possible that he’s rounding the corner.
Defensive Menace Alex Caruso Inks Multi-Year Extension With Thunder
Caruso’s age is worth noting considering the length of the deal. He’ll be 35 years old when his contract expires and many players tend to decline in their later years. Nonetheless, Caruso’s IQ, technique and physical tools allow there to be cautious optimism there isn’t much concern in the immediate future.
First time we get to see Alex Caruso’s defense on OKC! One of the best in the league. Here are some clips from their recent preseason game: On Ball, Gap Steal, Gap Block attempt, Wall Ups, Swipe Steal, and Ball Screen Navigation.
Every young player should be taking notes pic.twitter.com/R6QQVT3sXk
— Michael Jagacki (@Mike_Jagacki) October 9, 2024
There are more plus-defenders in the NBA than has been suggested. That being said, Caruso is still among the best players in the league at that end. With the league’s top teams possessing a lot of talent on the perimeter in this era, it simply makes sense to keep an exceptional defender like him in town.
Caruso’s intangibles are also another factor. The Thunder are a young and, though seemingly an up and coming powerhouse, lack the experience of other championship-contenders. In the playoffs, that tends to matter, whether it comes down to preparation or emotions. As that relates to Caruso, he’s not just the oldest and most experienced player on the team, he’s the only one with an NBA ring.
His leadership is invaluable.
