Cavaliers' Max Strus Makes Season Debut Against Mavericks

Strus returns to lineup after missing 67 games with a broken left foot.

Mar. 15, 2026 at 9:37pm

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Max Strus, a 6-foot-5 forward for the Cleveland Cavaliers, made his season debut on Sunday against the Dallas Mavericks after missing the first 67 games due to a broken left foot that he suffered during offseason training. Strus entered the game in the first quarter and made a pair of 3-pointers in his first 75 seconds on the court.

Why it matters

Strus was a key contributor for the Cavaliers last season, averaging 9.4 points, 4.3 rebounds, and 3.2 assists in 50 games, including 37 starts. His return to the lineup is expected to provide an emotional boost and added energy to the team as they push for a playoff spot.

The details

Strus suffered a Jones fracture, a break of the bone that connects the little toe to the base of the foot, during offseason training and underwent surgery on August 26th. When the injury originally occurred, it was expected that Strus would resume basketball activities in three to four months. Cavaliers head coach Kenny Atkinson said he was expecting Strus to see 20 to 24 minutes of action in his season debut.

  • Strus underwent surgery on his broken left foot on August 26, 2025.
  • Strus made his season debut for the Cavaliers on March 15, 2026.

The players

Max Strus

A 6-foot-5 forward for the Cleveland Cavaliers who missed the first 67 games of the season due to a broken left foot.

Kenny Atkinson

The head coach of the Cleveland Cavaliers.

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What they’re saying

“I think it's an emotional day when you witness someone go through what he has during the offseason and then struggling to get back. It's emotional, but it's also exciting. And then just to get an injection of energy and the competitor he is back in the locker room. It's good timing and will be a boost for the team, not just today but going forward.”

— Kenny Atkinson, Head Coach (nba.com)

What’s next

The Cavaliers will continue to monitor Strus' minutes and workload as he works his way back into game shape and full-time playing time.

The takeaway

Strus' return to the Cavaliers' lineup after a lengthy injury absence provides a much-needed boost of energy and experience to the team as they make a push for the playoffs. His ability to contribute on both ends of the floor will be crucial for the Cavaliers down the stretch.