Alex Caruso and the Oklahoma City Thunder have solidified their partnership with a four-year, $81 million contract extension, as first reported by Shams Charania of ESPN.
The deal underscores Caruso’s importance as one of the NBA’s premier perimeter defenders and a key factor in the Thunder’s rise to the top of the league’s defensive rankings.
Cap expert Yossi Gozlan broke down the specifics of the deal, which will see Caruso earn $18.1 million in the 2024/25 season, followed by $19.55 million in 2026/27, $21 million in 2027/28, and $22.47 million in the final year of the extension.
The terms were made possible after the player became eligible for the extension on Saturday, allowing him to sign for up to 140% of this season’s estimated average salary of $12.93 million. This represents a significant increase from the maximum three-year, $48.88 million extension he was eligible for before Saturday.
The defensive specialist, in the last year of a four-year, $36.98 million contract, was previously on track to become an unrestricted free agent this summer. However, his value as a defensive specialist and his contributions to Oklahoma City’s resurgence made him a priority for the team.
The June trade that brought Caruso to the Thunder in exchange for Josh Giddey came with a six-month waiting period for extension eligibility, which the Thunder navigated successfully to secure the veteran guard’s services long-term.
Since joining Oklahoma City, Caruso has transitioned seamlessly into his new role, coming off the bench in all 19 games this season after starting 57 of 71 games for the Chicago Bulls last year.
His averages of 5.7 points, 2.9 rebounds, 2.4 assists, and a career-high 1.9 steals in 20.2 minutes per game highlight his multifaceted contributions. Although his shooting has regressed to 38.5% this season from a career-high 46.8% last year, his defensive impact has been monumental.
The former Bull has been instrumental in transforming the Thunder into the NBA’s top defensive team. The Thunder currently allow the fewest points per game in the league while leading in defensive field goal percentage and opponent three-point percentage.
Caruso’s tenacity, anticipation, and leadership on the defensive end have been critical to Oklahoma City’s success, making him a cornerstone of their efforts to contend in the competitive Western Conference.
The 30-year-old guard has also built a reputation as a consummate professional and a locker-room leader, traits that have bolstered his value beyond his on-court production.
His ability to guard multiple positions, disrupt offensive schemes, and mentor younger players makes him an asset not only for the present but also for the Thunder’s long-term plans.
The extension also ensures roster stability for Oklahoma City, as it leaves the Thunder without any unrestricted free agents on their standard roster.
By securing Caruso’s services through the 2027/28 season, the Thunder have demonstrated their commitment to building around a core of disciplined, defensive-minded players while positioning themselves as a formidable force in the league for years to come.
The two-time All-Defensive Team member’s new contract reflects not only his current contributions but also the Thunder’s belief in his ability to be a key piece of their future.
Alex Caruso Reaches Four-Year Extension Agreement With Thunder https://t.co/dQABFD8DDx pic.twitter.com/A6l8AtEr1N
— Hoops Rumors (@HoopsRumors) December 22, 2024
