Cavaliers Reveal Positive Max Strus Update, Eye Potential Return Date

Cleveland can add another shooter into their rotation with Strus' impending return.

Mar. 14, 2026 at 9:48pm

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The Cleveland Cavaliers have undergone recent roster changes, bringing in three new contributors at the trade deadline. Now, the team is set to get another boost with the impending return of forward Max Strus, who has been listed as probable to play on Sunday against the Dallas Mavericks. Strus has missed the first 67 games of the season due to a foot fracture, but his return will give the Cavaliers another reliable option in the rotation as they make a push for the playoffs.

Why it matters

Strus is a valuable perimeter shooter who can help space the floor for stars like Donovan Mitchell and James Harden. His return will provide the Cavaliers with additional offensive firepower as they look to secure a playoff spot in the competitive Eastern Conference.

The details

Strus is averaging 11 points, 4.6 rebounds, 3.7 assists and 0.8 steals per game over the last two seasons with the Cavaliers. He has also shot 38.6% from three-point range, the second-highest mark of his career. The Cavaliers are hoping Strus can provide a similar level of production as they prepare for the postseason.

  • Strus has been listed as probable to play on Sunday, March 17, 2026 against the Dallas Mavericks.
  • After the Mavericks game, the Cavaliers will set out on a three-game road trip beginning against the Milwaukee Bucks.

The players

Max Strus

A forward for the Cleveland Cavaliers who has missed the first 67 games of the season due to a foot fracture, but is now set to make his season debut.

Donovan Mitchell

A star player for the Cleveland Cavaliers who will benefit from Strus' ability to space the floor as a perimeter shooter.

James Harden

A star player for the Cleveland Cavaliers who will also benefit from Strus' ability to space the floor as a perimeter shooter.

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What they’re saying

“Although he doesn't post All-Star numbers, Strus will certainly give head coach Kenny Atkinson another reliable option in the rotation.”

— Danny Cunningham, NBA Insider (Sporting News)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

Strus' return will provide the Cavaliers with additional offensive firepower as they look to secure a playoff spot in the competitive Eastern Conference. His ability to space the floor as a perimeter shooter will be a valuable asset for the team as they make a push for the postseason.