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Cavs Coach Kenny Atkinson Explains Why Max Strus Will Play Key Role in Playoffs

Max Strus has been a major factor since his return from a foot injury that kept him out for 67 games this season.
John Hobbs|
Apr 2, 2026; San Francisco, California, USA; Cleveland Cavaliers forward/guard Max Strus (2) scores a three point basket against the Golden State Warriors during the fourth quarter at Chase Center. Mandatory Credit: Kelley L Cox-Imagn Images
Apr 2, 2026; San Francisco, California, USA; Cleveland Cavaliers forward/guard Max Strus (2) scores a three point basket against the Golden State Warriors during the fourth quarter at Chase Center. Mandatory Credit: Kelley L Cox-Imagn Images | Kelley L Cox-Imagn Images

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Cleveland Cavaliers

The key to the Cleveland Cavaliers’ 118-111 win over the Golden State Warriors came down the stretch, and while Donovan Mitchell and James Harden were heavy contributors. One player stood out.

With the score at 110-107, the Cavaliers were holding on, especially as a win would seal a playoff place.

And with 54 seconds remaining, Max Strus buried a three-pointer that proved to be the dagger. Winning games down the stretch was something the Cavaliers have been screaming for the majority of this season.

Strus went 6-for-10 from three-point land and finished with 24 points, perfectly supporting Mitchell, who ended with 25. Further showing his worth, since returning from a foot injury that sidelined him for the vast majority of the season.

The long-awaited arrival of Strus has certainly lifted the Cavs to a different level heading into the postseason. And Atkinson is aware of his talent, and relishes the selection dilemma that he has with Strus and Sam Merrill. With the game on the line on Thursday, he made the right call.

What Atkinson said about Strus postgame

“Big shot, Max,” Atkinson said. “It’s just certain guys, their DNA, they're just made.

“Make or miss, right? It's either a big shot or a big offensive rebound. That's why now that I know him better, it's like, ‘Man, we need him in the end of game.’ That was a tough choice, right? It's like Sam, Max.

“Like, man, these choices are difficult. But he keeps proving it, that he wants to be in there at the end of the game, makes big shots, big plays.”

Strus will be key to Cleveland’s playoff adventure

As the Cavaliers gear up for the playoffs, Strus could be the key to helping Cleveland finally break through and reach the Conference Finals in 2026 – and hopefully the NBA Finals.

They may not hold the No. 1 seed this time around, but with a fully healthy roster and Strus playing a central role, they have the potential to be a serious force.

His standout performance against the Warriors showed just how valuable he is. He provides crucial support for Mitchell and Harden, especially on nights when the team needs another scoring spark and energy.

Cleveland was able to close that game out because Strus stepped up when it mattered most.

That kind of impact in high-pressure moments is exactly what the team needs down the stretch. If he can continue delivering like that, the Cavaliers will be a tough contender to beat.

“I think we're a stronger team,” Atkinson said. “I’m excited to see who we match up with and, you know, take that next step.”

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John Hobbs
JOHN HOBBS

A freelance journalist who has covered basketball long enough to remember LeBron James’ NBA debut for the Cavs like it was yesterday. Specializing in international basketball, John currently writes for FIBA. Outside of basketball, John is a sneaker enthusiast with over 100 pairs of Nikes/Jordans.

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