Oklahoma City Thunder guard Alex Caruso has officially secured his future with the team, signing a four-year, $81 million contract extension, as reported by ESPN's Shams Charania on Sunday. This substantial deal keeps Caruso out of free agency and ensures he will remain at the Thunder through the 2028-29 season.
Caruso, known for his elite defensive prowess, ranks among the NBA's top players, placing in the top five for several key defensive metrics, including deflections, field-goal percentage allowed as the contesting defender, and points conceded as the primary defender on direct picks. Such statistics highlight why the Thunder are willing to invest heavily in the 30-year-old guard.
The decision to extend Caruso’s contract signals not only Oklahoma City’s commitment to him but also reflects confidence in his potential to contribute to the team’s success moving forward. Following the conclusion of his previous contract with the Chicago Bulls—which was worth just under $37 million over four years—Caruso had originally been set to enter free agency after the 2025 season. Instead, the Thunder's investment prioritizes their strategy for long-term competitiveness.
Caruso's integration with the Thunder has been smooth since his acquisition from the Bulls, where he was exchanged for guard Josh Giddey. ESPN's Jake Fischer previously noted Caruso expressed confidence and optimism about joining Oklahoma City, stating, “Obviously this is a place I think is ascending, and that's something I want to be a part of.” This sentiment appears to have motivated his decision to stay with the Thunder.
During his time with Chicago, Caruso had been performing exceptionally well, averaging 10.1 points, 3.8 rebounds, and pacing the league with 3.7 deflections per game. Despite recently transitioning back to the bench role after joining the Thunder, Caruso has managed to contribute with averages of 5.7 points, 2.9 assists, 1.9 steals, and 0.6 blocks per game over 19 matchups.
His role has been significant for Oklahoma City, which currently boasts the best record in the Western Conference at 22-5. The Thunder’s exemplary defensive performance, including leading the league in defensive rating and numerous other defensive statistics, can be attributed to Caruso’s presence alongside fellow defender Lu Dort. Together, they have become formidable defenders against opposing guards, contributing substantially to the team’s success.
Caruso’s contract extension coincides with the Thunder's overall strategy to improve their defensive capabilities since they faced disappointment after losing to the Dallas Mavericks in the second round of the playoffs last season. Alongside Caruso, the addition of center Isaiah Hartenstein—who joined on a three-year, $87 million contract—demonstrates the franchise's intent to build around its current young core, led by star player Shai Gilgeous-Alexander.
With both Caruso and Hartenstein secured for the foreseeable future, the Thunder are poised not only to strengthen their defensive lineup but also to make serious playoff pushes as they aim for the franchise’s first championship since 1979.
