When the Thunder made the player-for-player swap official between Josh Giddey and Caruso, they had to wait six months before officially opening negotiations. That window will open on Dec. 21. OKC GM Sam Presti could gift Thunder fans an early Christmas present by locking down the 30-year-old for the long haul.

Sam Presti plans to sign Alex Caruso to a contract extension, according to a new report. Oklahoma City Thunder head coach Mark Daigneault smiled when the front office acquired Alex Caruso. The All-Defensive Second Team guard was dealt to Oklahoma City in exchange for Josh Giddey.

The Oklahoma City Thunder can ink Alex Caruso to a new extension in a matter of weeks. This is going to be a priority for Sam Presti and company according to reports.

Injuries to Chet Holmgren, Ale Caruso and others aside, the Oklahoma City Thunder has impressed 20 games into the season.

Since Isaiah Hartenstein’s return, it looked like the Thunder had turned a corner — and in all honesty, they still might have. But dropping a conference game reminded the team that they’re not invincible.

Other risers this week include the Bucks, Mavericks and Hawks, while the teams at the top have benefited from continuity.