Alex Caruso reveals he's avoided taking some charges this season to keep his body fresh

What has made Alex Caruso extremely popular in the NBA is the same thing that has kept him on the bench for extended periods: his fearlessness. Whether it’s diving headfirst into the stands to save a loose ball or trying to draw an offensive foul from mammoth men like LeBron James and Giannis Antetokounmpo, Caruso has proven time and time again that he’s not afraid to put his body on the line for his team.

But as much as this mentality has won over fans and teammates alike, it also has drawbacks. The constant physical toll on Caruso’s body can lead to injuries or fatigue, ultimately keeping him away from the court.

In a recent interview, Caruso revealed that he has been more selective when taking charges this season. He understands the importance of staying healthy and fresh for the long NBA season and is willing to sacrifice some of his signature hustle plays for the greater good of himself and the team.

Taking care of his body

Caruso plays an integral role in the Chicago Bulls’ campaign to return to relevancy. His stifling defense keeps opposing players in check, while his spot-up shooting gives the team precious floor spacing. Simply put, Caruso’s presence on the floor is essential to the Bulls’ success. To that end, Caruso revealed that he’s intentionally moved out of the way a few times to preserve his body.

“I’ve intentionally missed a couple of charges this year and moved out of the way because I’m realizing that I’ve got to take care of my body, and you’ve got to be a little bit selfish at times to do that,” Caruso said.

However, before fans bring out their pitchforks, Caruso clarified that he still gives his all on the court, proof of which is the fact that he’s on pace to draw the most number of offensive fouls and play the most regular season games in his career.