Max Strus is the kind of shooter defenses can’t ignore for a second, and that should make Keaton Wagler’s job a whole lot cleaner from the jump.
The LA Clippers brought in Strus as a major weapon from beyond the arc, and the appeal is obvious. He’s the guy with the half-court buzzer-beater in his bag, the heat-check reputation, and the kind of three-point production that jumps off the page. For a front office that didn’t have to give up much to get him, that’s a strong add.
But the ripple effect may matter just as much as the shot-making itself. With Strus stretching the floor, Wagler should have more room to operate whenever the two share the court. Defenders can’t simply crowd the rookie and load up on his drives when there’s a proven shooter hanging out on the perimeter.
That matters because Wagler’s game is built on getting inside. During his one-and-done season with the Illinois Fighting Illini, the 19-year-old showed he can attack the rim, knock down floaters, and score from mid-range. He’s comfortable working in tight spaces, but he’ll be even more dangerous if the lane stays open.
Strus helps create that space in a few different ways. He can run into pick-and-pop action, stay active off the ball, or spot up and be ready to fire. And he’s been doing it at a high level for a while now, shooting above 35% on 5.9 attempts or more over the last five seasons.
That’s where the real problem for opposing defenses starts. If they stay home on Strus, Wagler gets cleaner paths to his sweet spots. If they send help at Wagler once he gets into the paint, Strus is exactly the kind of shooter who can punish them for it.
For Tyronn Lue and the Clippers staff, the mission is straightforward: make life easier for Wagler however they can. Pairing him with Strus is one of the simplest ways to do it, and it could pay off quickly throughout the rookie season. Plenty of people will deserve credit if Wagler thrives, but Strus figures to be near the top of that list.
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