Caruso provides spark in long-awaited return vs. Cavs

CHICAGO, ILLINOIS - MARCH 12: Alex Caruso #6 of the Chicago Bulls directs players as he brings the ball up the court against the Cleveland Cavaliers at the United Center on March 12, 2022 in Chicago, Illinois. The Bulls defeated the Cavaliers 101-91.

Jonathan Daniel / Getty Images Sport / Getty

Chicago Bulls guard Alex Caruso provided a spark off the bench in Saturday's 101-91 win over versus the Cleveland Cavalier s.

Caruso posted 11 points, four assists, four steals, and one block in 29 minutes of action as he returned to the lineup after a 22-game absence.

Bulls win 🖤❤️ felt great to be back out there tonight !! #BullsNation
— Alex Caruso (@ACFresh21) March 13, 2022

The backup guard hadn't played since Jan. 21 when he sustained a right wrist fracture in a collision with Milwaukee Bucks guard Grayson Allen.

He received a standing ovation from the United Center crowd as he checked into the contest.

Alex Caruso receives a standing ovation as he checks in for his first game action since January! #BullsNation

Watch on NBA League Pass: https://t.co/oz9UCQxdQa pic.twitter.com/zY4D1laZa5
— NBA (@NBA) March 13, 2022

Chicago signed Caruso to a four-year, $36-million contract last offseason. The Texas A&M product is averaging 8.4 points, 3.9 assists, 3.9 boards, and 1.9 steals over 28 appearances during the 2021-22 campaign. He was a key part of the Bulls' defense prior to his injury.