Thunder sign key role player to big contract extension

Nov 20, 2010; Milwaukee, WI, USA; Oklahoma City Thunder logo on a players shorts during the game against the Milwaukee Bucks at the Bradley Center. The Thunder defeated the Bucks 82-81. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Hanisch-USA TODAY Sports

The Oklahoma City Thunder have seen enough from Alex Caruso to make a long-term commitment.

The Thunder agreed to a four-year, $81 million contract extension with Caruso, according to Shams Charania of ESPN. The new deal will keep Caruso from hitting free agency at the end of the season.

Oklahoma City Thunder two-time NBA All-Defensive Team guard Alex Caruso has agreed to a four-year, $81 million contract extension with the franchise, his agent Greg Lawrence of Wasserman told ESPN. pic.twitter.com/22YqvnXaOd

— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) December 22, 2024

The Thunder traded for Caruso during the offseason and have taken to him very quickly. While his numbers do not stand out, he is regarded as one of the best perimeter defenders in the NBA, and he is averaging 1.9 steals in just over 20 minutes per game on the season. Notably, the Thunder are signing him for $81 million after just 19 games, a sign of how much they like what he brings to the team.

Oklahoma City is off to a 22-5 start and looks to be a legitimate NBA title contender. They clearly see Caruso as part of their long-term core based on this move.