What happened: Alex Caruso entered the lineup to start the second half in place of Aday Mara. The substitution was made as a coach's decision coming out of the break. The move alters the on-court personnel group for the final two quarters.
Why it matters: The tactical adjustment provides experienced perimeter defense while sitting Mara's interior presence. Inserting Caruso allows for greater versatility in switching across defensive assignments. The choice reshapes second-half rotation minutes and matchup responsibilities.
By the numbers: Mara has recorded 8.2 points, 5.8 rebounds, and 1.3 assists per game in 2026-27 through 13 games. Caruso has posted 7.6 points, 4.6 rebounds, and 2.9 assists per game in 2026-27 through 9 games.
What to watch: Watch how the rotation performs defensively through the second half and whether Mara re-enters in late-game situations.