Max Strus Thrives Against Former Team in Game 3 Playoff Matchup

MIAMI, Florida — Cleveland Cavaliers guard Max Strus showcased his significant contributions to his new team during Game 3 of the playoff series against the Miami Heat on April 28, 2025. Despite once donning a Heat uniform, Strus now plays a vital role for the Cavaliers, who blew out the Heat 124-87, marking a historic postseason win.

Strus, who signed a four-year, $62.3 million contract with the Cavaliers during free agency, expressed mixed emotions leading up to the game. “I thought a little bit of me was kind of thinking I was going back,” he admitted, reflecting on his former team and the negotiations that ultimately led him to Cleveland.

In the last week, Strus has proven he can handle the pressure of playoff basketball, equally contributing on both ends of the court. Cavaliers head coach Kenny Atkinson praised Strus, saying, “He does all the dirty work… He’s the ultimate role player you need around great players.” During this playoff run, Strus has earned respect for his grit and determination, stepping into a starting role alongside stars like Donovan Mitchell and Darius Garland.

Despite the blowout loss, the Heat faced challenges due to injuries and missed performance from key players. Miami’s Kyle Anderson was unavailable on the game day, compounding the struggles for the eighth-seeded team. They recorded their worst postseason loss in franchise history against a formidable Cavaliers squad that has dominated throughout this series.

Strus’s performance included 18 points, nine rebounds, and five assists, underscoring the deeper talent pool the Cavaliers possess compared to the Heat. He remains committed to “impact winning in any way I can” as the series progresses.

Miami guard Tyler Herro, who previously downplayed Strus’s influence, underperformed in this game, reflecting the disparity in momentum and morale. With Strus answering the challenge head-on, the Cavaliers pushed themselves closer to a sweep in this first-round matchup.

As the Cavaliers aim for a clean series sweep on Monday, all attention rests on how well Miami can respond and adapt to Cleveland’s ferocious pace and depth.