Thu, Jul 6, 2023 at 10:00pm

STRUS SENT TO CLEVELAND IN 3-TEAM SWAP

In a three-team trade, the Cleveland Cavaliers acquired guard/forward Max Strus from the Miami Heat; the San Antonio Spurs acquired forward/guard Cedi Osman, guard/forward Lamar Stevens, and a second-round draft pick in 2030 from the Cavaliers; and Miami acquired a second-round draft pick in 2026 from the Cavaliers.

What does it give the Cleveland Cavaliers
In Strus, the Cavaliers are getting a solid scoring wing who might play the role of sixth man in Cleveland. Behind guards Donovan Mitchell and Darius Garland, Strus's minutes may have to come more from the small forward position with the Cavs.

What does it give the San Antonio Spurs
For the Spurs, getting both Osman and Stevens should help the team's depth. Both might come off the bench in San Antonio, but both may also compete for a starting job. They are useful role players who might do well under coach Gregg Popovich.

What does it give the Miami Heat
This move looks like a clear salary dump by Miami, who are rumored to be in the market for another superstar to play with Jimmy Butler and Bam Adebayo. That said, Strus was good for the Heat and will be missed.

Fantasy impact
Osman and Stevens might get a little boost in fantasy value now that they will be playing alongside rookie sensation Victor Wembanyama in San Antonio. That said, neither is a recommendable draft option at this time. As for Strus, his value takes a small dip by moving from Miami to Cleveland. However, his role should determine his plight. If Strus can win the starting small forward job, he will be worthy of a draft selection in the later rounds.