Cleveland, OH – Head coach Kenny Atkinson has wasted little time reintegrating Max Strus into the Cavaliers’ plans after the guard’s return from foot surgery. Although Strus has appeared in just two games, Atkinson said he envisions the veteran in a prominent spot once the postseason begins.
“I have such a comfort level with him,” Atkinson told reporters, noting that Strus could start, serve as the sixth man or close games. “It’s hard not to finish with the guy because he is such a clutch player.”
Strus, sidelined since late August, logged 23 minutes off the bench in Tuesday’s victory over Milwaukee, finishing with six points, six rebounds and four assists while drilling a late three-pointer that sealed the win. Atkinson plans to steadily boost Strus’ workload over Cleveland’s final 13 regular-season contests, targeting “high-20s” minutes by the playoffs.
The Cavaliers’ rotation decisions are tightening. Cleveland acquired Keon Ellis and Dennis Schröder from Sacramento at the trade deadline to bolster perimeter defense, and sharpshooter Sam Merrill remains a trusted option. Second-year wing Jaylon Tyson, described earlier this season by general manager Koby Altman as a “franchise cornerstone,” could be squeezed out of the nine-man playoff mix. “We haven’t made a clear decision on who those nine are,” Atkinson said. “Especially our wings. We have a lot of wings right now.”
Siakam nearing return, but timeline still uncertain
Pacers forward Pascal Siakam continues to rehab a right knee sprain that sidelined him for a sixth straight game Wednesday. Coach Rick Carlisle told reporters he expects Siakam back before the season ends, but no target date has been announced.
Pacers skid hits franchise-worst 15
Indiana’s loss Wednesday pushed the club’s streak to 15 straight defeats, its longest since joining the NBA. The Pacers are on pace for their worst season record in league play, according to Circle City Spin.
Ivey could join Bulls on road trip
Bulls coach Billy Donovan said guard Jaden Ivey, out since Feb. 11 with a left knee issue, will travel with the team on its upcoming trip in hopes of returning to action. Donovan added that Ivey’s pain has subsided.
Source: Hoops Rumors
