Amid the firepower of Jalen Williams and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, there’s another name quietly shaping the Thunder’s NBA Finals run – Alex Caruso. Known for his defense and hustle, the veteran guard is now gaining recognition for something even more impactful: his leadership.
With the Oklahoma City Thunder just one win away from its first NBA championship, Caruso’s presence on and off the court is being felt in major ways. And if SGA’s recent words are anything to go by, he’s doing more than just defending.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander Praises Alex Caruso’s Leadership in Playoffs
The spotlight was on Jalen Williams (40 points) and Gilgeous-Alexander with his 31-point effort in Game 5, but when asked about Caruso, the newly crowned NBA MVP had only good words:
“Yes, he is the only one on the team with a ring. Knows what it takes. He’s been here before. When he speaks, everyone listens, like you have no choice but to listen,” SGA said in the post-game media appearance.
“Like a guy like that leads by example, not only leading with his voice, and does everything to make the team better, selflessly. You have no choice but to listen to a guy like that when he speaks.”
“When he speaks, everyone listens…”
Shai on the impact of Alex Caruso (4 STL) as OKC sits 1 win away from a title 💪
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That respect speaks volumes. While the box score in Game 5 showed only two points, two rebounds, and two assists for Caruso, his value runs much deeper. At 31, he’s the oldest player on the roster, the only one with championship experience, and the glue that binds the Thunder’s youth and energy with playoff composure.
Forward Cason Wallace echoed that sentiment, saying, “He plays the game, he thinks the game, and he’s also coaching the game all at the same time. He’s always a few steps ahead.”
Caruso’s Two-Way Play Giving Thunder a Postseason Edge
Known for his relentless defense, Caruso has built a reputation as a player who frustrates opponents with pressure, timing, and smart positioning. He’s physical and constantly pokes at passing lanes. That gritty defensive effort hasn’t changed in the Finals. But now, he’s doing even more.
In 21 playoff games this year, Caruso is averaging 9.6 points, 2.7 rebounds, and 2.3 assists. These numbers may not jump out, but when you consider he had no 20-point games in the regular season and already two in the Finals, it’s clear something has shifted.
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Oklahoma City’s front office deserves credit too. General manager Sam Presti’s decision to bring in Caruso during the 2024 offseason didn’t draw major headlines at the time. But now, it looks like another smart, forward-thinking move that could be the difference in a championship run.
As Game 5 closed out with a 120-109 Thunder win and a 3-2 series lead, Caruso’s calm presence kept the energy grounded. Williams went off for 40 and SGA continued his record-setting playoff tear with 31 points. Now, just one win stands between Caruso and his second NBA ring.