'This is what I live for': Alex Caruso ready for 2nd playoff run with Thunder

When the lights are at their brightest, Alex Caruso happily takes center stage. He's not a fan of rehearsal, but will gladly steal the show when things start to really matter. The 32-year-old has proudly called himself a playoff riser.

And two NBA championship rings back up his talk. For the third straight year, the Oklahoma City Thunder await to see who survives the play-in tournament. They won't learn their Round 1 opponent until Friday.

One of the Phoenix Suns, LA Clippers or Golden State Warriors will grab the eighth seed to face the reigning NBA champions. For Caruso, Sunday's Game 1 can't come fast enough. He had a so-so regular season.

He shot a career-low 29. 3% from 3 on 3. 2 attempts.