In a decisive Game 7 on May 18, 2025, at Paycom Center, the Oklahoma City Thunder unleashed a surprising defensive strategy against Denver Nuggets star Nikola Jokic, assigning 6-foot-5 guard Alex Caruso to guard the 6-foot-11 reigning MVP. The move paid off spectacularly, as Caruso’s relentless pressure limited Jokic to 20 points on just 5-of-9 shooting—his fewest attempts in the series—leading the Thunder to a commanding 125-93 victory. Jokic, who added 9 points from free throws, was visibly frustrated, a testament to Caruso’s disruptive defense.
Caruso, reflecting on the challenge, emphasized his all-out approach. “He’s a phenomenal player… It’s Game 7, right? So, you’re either going to the next round or your summer’s starting,” he said post-game. “For me, it was just about being relentless with my energy… making stuff tough on him.” He credited his teammates for their swarming help, noting the collective effort in navigating the game’s physicality to make Jokic work for every touch. Thunder coach Mark Daigneault praised Caruso’s individual effort, saying, “He did an unbelievable job… you need relentless help and relentless pressure on the entry passes.”
Offensively, Caruso led the Thunder bench with 11 points on 5-of-7 shooting, adding 3 assists and 3 steals in 26 minutes, as detailed in the sports data card. Daigneault’s decision to cut backup center Jaylin Williams’ minutes and keep Caruso on the floor—even against Jokic—proved pivotal, showcasing Caruso’s versatility. The Thunder’s small-ball approach not only neutralized Jokic but also allowed OKC to exploit Denver’s defense, with Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Jalen Williams combining for 54 points.
This win propels the Thunder to the Western Conference Finals, where they’ll face the winner of the Mavericks-Timberwolves series, starting May 21. For Caruso, a 2023 NBA champion with the Lakers, this performance cements his reputation as a defensive menace capable of altering a series. As OKC eyes a deep playoff run, Caruso’s Game 7 heroics—on both ends of the floor—signal they’re ready to compete with the West’s best.
