Max Strus hasn’t suited up for the Cavaliers yet this season, but that could be changing soon - and not a moment too soon for a Cleveland squad that’s been searching for a spark.
Strus has been on the shelf since August with a Jones fracture in his foot, an injury that often comes with a lengthy recovery timeline. For months, updates from the team have been scarce.
But now there’s some real movement. According to ESPN’s Brian Windhorst, Strus is trending toward a return in the near future - and he’s pushing hard to speed things up.
“The word I’m hearing on Max is that he’s weeks away, not months away,” Windhorst said during a radio appearance on ESPN Cleveland. “Max is apparently, from what I am told, dying to get back out onto the court. And would play tomorrow if they would let him.”
That’s not just encouraging news - it’s potentially huge for a Cavaliers team that’s been missing exactly the kind of edge Strus brings. The former starter has always played with a chip on his shoulder, and right now, Cleveland could use every ounce of that grit.
The Cavs have been outworked in several recent losses, and frustration is starting to show. Jaylon Tyson didn’t mince words earlier this week when he called out the team’s energy and effort. Strus, who plays every possession like it matters (because to him, it does), could be the kind of presence that helps reset the tone.
But it’s not just about attitude. Strus brings a versatile skill set that fits right into what Cleveland’s offense has been lacking.
He’s a capable pick-and-roll ball handler, a willing off-ball mover, and a reliable floor spacer. His shooting and movement without the ball open up spacing and create opportunities for teammates - something the Cavs have struggled to generate consistently this season.
Last year, Strus averaged 9.4 points, 4.3 rebounds, and 3.2 assists per game while shooting .442 from the field, .386 from deep, and .824 from the line. Those aren’t eye-popping numbers, but they tell the story of a player who contributes in multiple ways and plays within himself. He doesn’t need the ball to make an impact, and that’s exactly the kind of complementary piece Cleveland needs alongside its ball-dominant guards.
There’s also the question of how Strus fits back into the starting lineup. The Cavs appeared to be leaning toward De’Andre Hunter as their full-time small forward coming into the season, and it’s unclear how that dynamic will shake out once Strus is cleared. But given his track record and the trust he’s earned from the coaching staff, it’s hard to imagine he won’t find his way back into a significant role quickly.
Bottom line: Strus is close. And his return could be a turning point for a Cavaliers team that’s still trying to find its identity early in the season. His energy, shot-making, and toughness could go a long way in helping this group get back on track.