Oklahoma City Thunder guard Aaron Wiggins recently praised new teammate Alex Caruso, emphasizing the veteran’s basketball IQ and leadership on both ends of the floor. Caruso joined the Thunder after a trade with the Chicago Bulls, adding a new level of defensive toughness to the team.
“He’s just very smart. Very smart guy, knows the game really well. Big communication guy on both ends of the court,” Wiggins said when discussing Caruso’s impact. He added, “You can see his experience in the way that he plays.”
Wiggins noted that Caruso’s ability to communicate and read plays stands out during practices. “I’ve been able to watch him, hear from him. He’s always coaching guys on the court. He has a very good feel for different looks that he has learned and knows how to put out on the court,” Wiggins explained.
Caruso’s basketball acumen extends to both sides of the game. “On both ends of the court, he makes good reads on the offensive end, and he’s able to see defenses really well,” Wiggins remarked. Caruso’s ability to disguise defenses and set up different schemes has made him a valuable asset for Oklahoma City. Wiggins concluded, “Very smart player on both ends of the court.”
Caruso was acquired by the Thunder in a June trade that sent Josh Giddey to the Bulls. His arrival in Oklahoma City has bolstered the team’s defensive identity, as he is regarded as one of the league’s top perimeter defenders. Caruso’s reputation for being a disruptive defender has earned him respect across the NBA, and his intensity during practices is no exception.
While Caruso’s defensive skills may present challenges for his teammates during practices, they also command respect. Known for his hustle and intensity, Caruso was named to the NBA All-Defensive First Team in 2023, a testament to his lockdown defense and ability to force turnovers. His approach to the game has made him a respected figure in the Thunder locker room.
Caruso’s defensive prowess became widely recognized during his tenure with the Bulls. After signing a four-year, $37 million contract with the Bulls in 2021, he quickly made an impact as one of the league’s premier defenders. Despite suffering a fractured wrist in January 2022 after a foul from Grayson Allen, Caruso returned and finished the 2023 season with an All-Defensive First Team selection.