Alex Caruso, a guard for the Oklahoma City Thunder, delivered a historic performance Monday night in the team's Game 1 loss to the Denver Nuggets. Caruso recorded a stat line unprecedented for a player coming off the bench in an NBA playoff game.
Despite the Thunder's 121-119 defeat, Caruso finished the game with 20 points, six assists, five steals, and two blocks in 26 minutes. His scoring efficiency included hitting seven of 12 shots from the field and five of nine attempts from three-point range.
Caruso's output marked the first time in NBA playoff history a reserve player achieved at least 20 points, five assists, five steals, and two blocks in a single game. His contributions were felt on both ends of the floor throughout his time in the game.
The veteran guard joined Oklahoma City last offseason via a trade with the Chicago Bulls, which sent Josh Giddey to Chicago. At the time, the transaction drew considerable attention and debate regarding its value to each team.
Caruso's performance in the Game 1 contest renewed focus on the trade's impact, showcasing the defensive tenacity and offensive versatility the Thunder acquired. He averaged 7.1 points, 2.9 rebounds, 2.5 assists, and 1.6 steals over the regular season.
Thunder Head coach Mark Daigneault made a personnel change during the game, opting to start Caruso in the second half, replacing Isaiah Hartenstein. Caruso's defensive activity and shooting provided energy for the team.
Caruso also became the first player in league playoff history to accumulate two or more blocks, three or more steals, and five or more three-pointers in one playoff appearance, according to foreign media.
"Alex has been a game-changer for us," Daigneault said after the game. "His ability to impact the game on both ends of the floor is something we’ve needed, especially in the playoffs."
Caruso commented on the team's collective mindset.
"We’ve got a lot of weapons," Caruso stated. "We’re all confident in each other, and that’s what makes this team special. We’re going to keep pushing and looking to take this series one game at a time.”
The Nuggets were led by Nikola Jokic, who finished with 31 points, 20 rebounds, and six assists.
