Alex Caruso (Image Credit: Getty Images)
The Oklahoma City Thunder’s top defender, Alex Caruso, has been sidelined with a right hip strain that has caused significant soreness. The injury first appeared during the Thunder’s game against the New Orleans Pelicans on November 13, 2024, and has kept him out of the last three games. Caruso’s absence is particularly felt on defense, where he has been a key contributor this season. Along with injuries to players like Chet Holmgren and Isaiah Hartenstein, his injury adds to the Thunder’s ongoing challenges.

There is no clear timeline for Caruso’s return. The Thunder expects him to miss their upcoming game against the Dallas Mavericks on November 17, but he may return for the game against the San Antonio Spurs on November 19. The team is monitoring his condition day-to-day, taking care not to rush his recovery. For now, his return remains uncertain as the medical staff focuses on proper healing.
Alex Caruso and Franz Wagner (Image Credit: Getty Images)
Caruso has been crucial to the Thunder’s defense, averaging 1.7 steals, 2.9 rebounds, and 2.3 assists this season. His ability to guard multiple positions and disrupt plays has been a key factor in the team’s strong defensive performance. With him out, head coach Mark Daigneault has adjusted the rotation, using smaller lineups and relying more on players like Jalen Williams to fill the defensive void. Despite staying competitive, including a recent win over the Phoenix Suns, the Thunder miss Caruso’s defensive impact.

Thunder Adjust Lineup In Alex Caruso’s Absence

With Caruso out, the Thunder have had to adjust their lineup. Since Holmgren has also sustained an injury, Coach Daigneault has been using smaller lineups and relying on players like Jalen Williams to help fill the defensive gap. While these changes have kept the team competitive, Caruso’s unique defensive skills are hard to replace. His return will be crucial as the Thunder face tougher teams later in the season.

There is still no set timeline for Caruso’s return, but the team will continue to monitor his recovery and progress. Fans are hopeful that Caruso may be back for the game against the Spurs, but the Thunder are taking extra precautions to avoid further injury. His defense, leadership, and energy will be important as the team tries to keep up its strong start to the season.

Alex Caruso’s absence is putting more pressure on other players to step up, but his eventual return will be an important moment for the Thunder. Moving forward in the competitive Western Conference, getting Caruso back will be imperative to their hopes of continued success.