Strus’ absence for half the season elevates Nance’s value as a floor-spacing option and veteran presence. The Cavs needed a flexible role player, and Nance fits that mold, providing three-point threat and defensive hustle that can bridge the gap left by Strus’ absence and maintain bench scoring.

Max Strus is highlighted as a Cavaliers forward whose extended absence would press the depth chart, forcing wings to expand minutes and shooters to step up around Mitchell and Garland. His absence shifts bench roles and shooting dynamics, making back-end Cavaliers value more sensitive to rotation changes.

Strus undergoes foot surgery and will miss at least 20 games, creating a wing rotation void for Cleveland. His season-era numbers were 9.4 PPG, 4.3 RPG with 38.6% from deep; playoff run averaged 11.7 PPG and 5.7 RPG. Immediate fantasy impact centers on how the Cavs compensate and who steps up behind the top unit, notably De’Andre Hunter stepping into a starting role. Beasley remains a speculative target given salary constraints.

Strus arrives in Cleveland with a reputation for shooting gravity and floor spacing. His role and usage will hinge on how CLE balances shot creation with established scorers; a steady 3-point presence and secondary playmaking could anchor his fantasy value.

Strus provides needed floor-space and shooting versatility, potentially starting or operating as a key off-ball threat. His fit depends on whether Hunter or Strus fills the starting three, but either way his scoring timing could unlock more efficient lineups for Mitchell and Mobley, especially in games Garland sits or is limited.