The Cleveland Cavaliers are gearing up to be a formidable force in the 2025-26 NBA season, with their sights set on a deep playoff run. However, their championship aspirations have hit an early roadblock, as sharpshooting wing Max Strus, a key offseason acquisition, will miss the start of the season due to a significant injury.
According to Hoops Wire’s Sam Amico, Strus suffered a Jones fracture in his left foot during offseason training. The injury required surgery, sidelining the dynamic wing for an estimated three to four months. This setback is a blow to the Cavaliers, who were counting on Strus’ versatility and tenacity to bolster their lineup.
Adding to Cleveland’s early-season challenges, All-Star point guard Darius Garland is also likely to miss training camp and the opening weeks of the season. Garland underwent surgery to address a big toe injury sustained during last year’s playoffs, leaving new head coach Kenny Atkinson without two projected starters as the season approaches.
Max Strus, a former member of the Boston Celtics and Miami Heat, has carved out an inspiring career arc. Undrafted out of DePaul, Strus was once cut by the Celtics, a decision he didn’t let Boston forget. He famously took to social media to troll his former team, especially after his Heat defeated the Celtics in a playoff series. That fiery competitiveness has become a hallmark of his game, endearing him to fans and teammates alike.
Strus has evolved into a far better player than anyone could have predicted. At six-foot-five, he combines a lethal 36.8 percent career three-point shooting stroke with surprising defensive prowess. His deceptive lateral quickness and physicality allow him to hold his own against tougher matchups, often exceeding expectations on the defensive end. Last season with the Cavaliers, Strus averaged 9.4 points, 4.3 rebounds, and 3.2 assists per game, proving his value as a two-way contributor.
Unfortunately, injuries have been a recurring theme for Strus. Last season, he missed the first 15 games and sat out 32 games total due to various ailments. Now, with this latest surgery, the Cavaliers will need to navigate the early part of the season without one of their most versatile wings. His absence leaves a gap in Cleveland’s rotation, as Strus’ ability to stretch the floor, compete defensively, and bring a relentless edge to the court is tough to replace.
Despite these setbacks, there’s optimism surrounding Strus’ eventual return. Known for his hard-nosed mentality and ability to thrive under pressure, Strus is the kind of player who elevates his team while getting under the skin of opponents. Once he’s back to full health, he’s expected to be a critical piece of Cleveland’s push for the NBA Finals.
For now, the Cavaliers will need to lean on their depth and adapt under Atkinson’s leadership. The team’s resilience will be tested early, but if anyone can rise to the occasion, it’s a competitor like Max Strus. Cleveland fans are eagerly awaiting his return, ready to see their new weapon from Boston light up the court once again.