An express adaptation for Max Strus

If Donovan Mitchell scored the “game winner” to fend off the Nets from a hot Cam Thomas, Max Strus also distinguished himself with the Riders.

Author of 27 points and 12 rebounds (career record) in 39 minutes, he simply did what he does best, that is to say shoot and air the game for his teammates: 7/13 to 3 points !

A dream first outing for the former Miami player, recruited by Cleveland for his shooting quality, which didn’t take long to shine with his new team.

“ I think it went pretty well for me “, reacted afterward the new Cavs record holder in terms of 3-point shots scored for a debut with the franchise. “ I got some great shooting positions. My teammates did a great job finding me early and getting me a few easy shots to get me going. Then, once I find my rhythm, it usually means a good evening for me. I couldn’t have asked for a better start to the season. »

In the middle of Evan Mobley’s screens and to the rhythm of the shifts from Darius Garland or Donovan Mitchell, Max Strus broke the deadlock for the Nets, who clearly did not expect to see him shine like this.

“ I wish I could guarantee that every night, but I don’t think it’s going to happen like that… », he smiled afterwards, delighted with this fanfare start. “ We have so many talented players on this roster… It’s going to be anyone’s night at any game. Anyone can raise their game. That’s when our team will be most successful: when we all benefit from each other’s success and when everyone contributes. »

Vital for the Cavs’ ambitions

Now in possession of a four-year, $64 million contract, Max Strus is likely to break out in Ohio alongside Donovan Mitchell, Darius Garland, Evan Mobley and Jarrett Allen. Off the bench or in the five, depending on the needs of his coach.

“ He arrived to set the tone with a specific goal in mind », noted moreover JB Bickerstaff. “ Beyond his 3-pointers, which we expected from him, he grabbed 12 rebounds. We’re going to play small ball this season and we’ve talked about the importance of finishing possessions well. Max played position 4 and he [capté des rebonds]. It’s more than shooting with him, he delivered a complete match. »

A thunderous start that feels like a small victory for Donovan Mitchellwho pushed for the recruitment of Max Strus whom he likes to compare to Kyle Korver for the quality of his game without the ball.

“ There are many things about his game that I didn’t know and didn’t suspect. », nevertheless indicated the other hero of the evening. “ I had to defend on him, I had to chase him, so his shot is obviously [l’une de ses qualités]. But I think we also have to look at his knowledge of the game, what he sees, his sense of anticipation, being in the right places, his ability to switch, to hold his opposite number, running in transition, doing the right thing… There are so many things he can do, intangibles, it goes well beyond his shot. This is something that really struck me [hier soir] and which marked me throughout training camp. We’re still trying to understand each other, but that’s not a bad way to start. When you can add a guy like Max to what you already have, it’s special. »

How to read the stats? MJ = matches played; Min = Minutes; Shots = Successful shots / Attempted shots; 3pts = 3-points / 3-points attempted; LF = free throws made / free throws attempted; Off = offensive rebound; Def=defensive rebound; Tot = Total rebounds; Pd = assists; Fte: Personal fouls; Int = Intercepts; Bp = Lost balls; Ct: Against; Pts = Points.