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Thunder's Top X-Factor: Lakers Alumni Caruso Drops 20 Points, Team-High off Bench, Sets Finals Caree

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In Game 2 of the Finals, the Thunder routed the Pacers 123-107 at home to even the series 1-1, with former Lakers champion Alex Caruso emerging as the definitive X-factor. Coming off the bench for 27 minutes, Caruso shot 6-of-11 (4-of-8 from deep, 4-of-4 from the line) for 20 points, tying for the game's second-most 3PM and leading all bench players in scoring. The outing set both his career playoff and Finals single-game scoring highs, underscoring his value.


Thunder's Top X-Factor: Lakers Alumni Caruso Drops 20 Points, Team-High off Bench, Sets Finals Caree Career Record 第1张

Championship Experience Reignited

A member of the Lakers' 2020 title team, Caruso returned to the Finals five years later, proving indispensable as Oklahoma City's spark plug. In Game 1's heartbreaking 110-111 loss, he posted an all-around line of 11 points, 6 rebounds, 2 assists, 3 steals, and 2 blocks— the only Thunder reserve in double figures.

Clinching Efficiency in Game 2

Caruso upped the ante in Game 2, shooting over 50% from the field (6-11) and draining 4 triples on 8 attempts (tied for second-most in the game). His perfect 4-of-4 from the line sealed his 20-point outburst as the bench's leading scorer.

Thunder's Top X-Factor: Lakers Alumni Caruso Drops 20 Points, Team-High off Bench, Sets Finals Caree Career Record 第2张

Vindication for the Underrated Veteran

With his hustle and efficiency, Caruso solidified his role as OKC's premier sixth man—a performance that also serves as a reminder of the Lakers' misstep in letting him go. His resurgence in the Finals highlights why championship pedigree and defensive tenacity remain timeless commodities in basketball's highest stakes.


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