Max Strus Has Been As Advertised For Cavaliers
The Cleveland Cavaliers knew that they had a three-point shooting problem after being eliminated from last season's playoffs. The front office sought to address this hole by singing Max Strus to a four-year $62.3 million deal to be the team's new starting small forward.
That signing was met with criticism by some fans (hand up, that included myself). Strus was a great fit with the Miami Heat, but it was unclear what his production would be liked outside of their system.
Oct 27, 2023; Cleveland, Ohio, USA; Cleveland Cavaliers guard Max Strus (1) shoots in the fourth quarter against the Oklahoma City Thunder at Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse. Mandatory Credit: David Richard-USA TODAY Sports
© David Richard-USA TODAY Sports
We're now three games into the 2023-24 season, and Strus has been as advertised, making a huge, all-around impact on the Cavs' offense. Yes, it's a small sample size, but there are signs that it will be sustainable.
Strus has played and started in all three of Cleveland's games and has been the offensive threat the Cavs hoped for. He's currently averaging 18.7 points per game while playing almost 40 minutes a night.
The 27-year-old gained a reputation over the last two seasons as a tremendous three-point shooter, and that's exactly what he's been. Strus is currently shooting 37.3 percent from behind the arc on 11.0 attempts per game.
He even broke a Cavaliers franchise record and tied an NBA record for most three-pointers made in a debut with a new team as Cleveland defeated the Brooklyn Nets on opening night.
Strus's hot start to the season is certainly catching the eyes of fans and the coaching staff. J.B. Bickerstaff touched on how important Strus has been and how he'll continue to be a focal point of the team's plans.
"If you have any opportunity, you go and get a guy like Max."
