Alex Caruso injury update: OKC Thunder guard out vs. Suns with sprained ankle

Alex Caruso will not return to OKC's home game against Phoenix on Monday due to a right ankle sprain.

Caruso elevated to contest a jumper by Dillon Brooks at the 1:34 mark of the second quarter and landed wrong on said ankle, tweaking it in the process. He then limped into the locker room for further evaluation.

OKC has been hit hard by injuries recently . Cason Wallace tore his labrum in his left shoulder during a home win over the Los Angeles Clippers on Sunday, and Jalen Williams also fractured his fibula and dislocated his ankle on the left side. Timelines for both players will be announced after they undergo surgery.

But the Thunder still got off to a strong start against the Suns thanks in large part to Caruso, who competed with his usual intensity on both ends. He recorded nine points, three assists and two rebounds in nine minutes off the bench prior to his departure.

OKC holds a 67-53 lead over Phoenix at halftime.

Justin Martinez covers the Thunder and NBA for The Oklahoman. Have a story idea for Justin? He can be reached at jmartinez@oklahoman.com or on X/Twitter at @Justintohoops. Sign up for the Thunder Sports Minute newsletter to access more NBA coverage. Support Justin's work and that of other Oklahoman journalists by purchasing a digital subscription today at subscribe.oklahoman.com .