NBA fans are buzzing with excitement following news of former champion Alex Caruso‘s four-year, $81 million contract extension with the Oklahoma City Thunder. This deal not only solidifies Caruso’s role as a key defender but also serves as an inspiring reminder to never give up on your dreams in the competitive world of professional basketball.
The Oklahoma City Thunder have made a significant move by extending Caruso’s contract for four years at $81 million, solidifying his role as one of the league’s top defenders. This decision comes after the Thunder’s disappointing exit in the 2023-24 playoffs, where they fell to the Dallas Mavericks in the second round. Recognizing the need to enhance their defensive capabilities, the team has prioritized securing elite talent like Caruso to bolster their playoff aspirations.
Caruso, a two-time All-Defensive Team member, expressed enthusiasm about his fit with the Thunder. He believes the team is on the rise and is eager to contribute to their success. His commitment underscores a mutual confidence in the Thunder’s direction, particularly as they aim to compete at a higher level in the coming seasons. Originally scheduled to hit free agency in 2025, this extension ensures that Caruso will remain an integral part of the team’s plans through at least the 2028-29 season.
Before joining the Thunder, Caruso showcased his defensive prowess with the Chicago Bulls, where he averaged a career-high 10.1 points and led the league with 3.7 deflections per game. Although his role has shifted to coming off the bench in Oklahoma City, he has continued to demonstrate versatility and skill. Despite dealing with a hip injury earlier in the season, he has maintained solid averages of 5.7 points, 2.9 assists, and 1.9 steals over 19 games.
NBA Fans React to Oklahoma City Thunder Star Alex Caruso Contract News
Caruso’s new deal has generated a lot of buzz from people. The fans’ reactions can be seen in a post shared by Ball Is Life on X.
Alex Caruso 👏
2016: Undrafted
2020: NBA Champion (Lakers)
2023: All-Defense 1st Team (Bulls)
2024: $81M extension (Thunder) pic.twitter.com/dduHRE0EiJ— Ballislife.com (@Ballislife) December 23, 2024
“Fully deserved,” The Governer said.
“Never give up on your dreams. Caruso is living proof,” Nic Thomas posted.
“He’s actually a good basketball ball player. I’ll watch him play,” Terpene Shogun tweeted.
“Good for him. Miss him on the lakers. Imagine they never took the chance on him,” Ryan shared.
“Well deserved,” Kari reacted.
“He plays hard. I just wish he was alittle more consistent in scoring + his shooting,” Jay remarked.
“Well deserved. Just a good dude,” 37th Chamber noted.
The Thunder’s strategy to improve their defense also includes the recent acquisition of Isaiah Hartenstein, who signed a three-year, $87 million deal. Together, Caruso and Hartenstein are expected to form a formidable defensive duo, supporting star player Shai Gilgeous-Alexander in the team’s quest for their first NBA championship since 1979.
With this contract extension, the Thunder are not only investing in Caruso’s defensive capabilities but also in a promising future. The organization is clearly focused on building a competitive team that can contend for titles, and with Caruso’s talent, they are taking important steps towards that goal.
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