<p>Caruso praises Wallace’s unique defensive style, underscoring a veteran presence for the Thunder’s backcourt and signaling a complementary role for defense and decision-making.</p><p>His perspective hints at a leadership-driven approach to a rotation that blends defense, pace, and floor spacing as OKC builds its season blueprint.</p>

Caruso adds elite defense and playmaking to OKC's backcourt. His presence could boost steals and defensive stats, while potentially capping Dort's rim-protection metrics. He shifts the defensive ceiling higher and provides another multi-cat option.

Caruso brings leadership, defense and timely shooting off the bench. His value grows if he can carve out minutes with a consistent role, providing 2-3 steals per game and efficient scoring in limited action.

Caruso anchors OKC's defense off the bench, bringing energy, high-IQ defense and timely 3-point shooting. Last season he played sparing minutes but made a playoff impact; this year the plan centers on health management, a steady shooting trajectory, and continued defensive leadership.

Short Thunder stint but immediate playoff pedigree; two-time All-Defensive pick; contributed lockdown defense and earned a championship ring during the tenure.