Cavaliers’ Max Strus Undergoes Foot Surgery, Set for 3-4 Month Recovery Period

August 26, 2025, 4:09 PM ET

Cavaliers’ Max Strus to Undergo Foot Surgery, Faces Months-Long Recovery

Cleveland Cavaliers shooting guard Max Strus will require surgery to address a Jones fracture sustained in his left foot, the team announced on Tuesday. The injury occurred during recent off-season training sessions, presenting a setback for the team as they prepare for the upcoming season.

Injury Details and Recovery Timeline

The fracture, a break in the bone connecting the pinkie toe to the foot, necessitates surgical intervention. Team medical staff project Strus will be sidelined for approximately three to four months, ruling him out for the initial phase of the 2025-26 NBA season which begins October 22nd.

strus’s Impact on the Cavaliers

Acquired two summers ago in a sign-and-trade deal, strus has become an integral component of the Cavaliers’ core. His contributions have been noteworthy as Cleveland has ascended into a prominent contender in the Eastern Conference. Prior to this injury he established himself as a reliable perimeter threat.

This isn’t the first off-season injury for Strus; last year, he experienced a right ankle sprain during workouts, causing him to miss the opening two months of the season. Upon his return, Strus averaged 9.4 points and 3.2 assists while maintaining a 38.6% accuracy from the three-point line.

Looking Ahead

The extended recovery period means Strus will likely miss a important portion of the regular season. The cavaliers will need to adjust their rotations and rely on other players to fill the void created by his absence. The team has not yet announced any specific plans for replacing strus in the lineup.

Player	Injury	Estimated Recovery	Impact on Season Start
Max Strus	Jones Fracture (Left Foot)	3-4 Months	Expected to miss initial months

Did you know? Jones fractures are common among athletes, notably those involved in sports with sudden stops and starts?
Pro Tip: Proper footwear and conditioning can help mitigate the risk of these types of injuries.

What adjustments do you think the Cavaliers will make in Strus’ absence, and how will this impact their championship aspirations? Do you foresee this injury affecting the team’s overall performance this season?

Understanding Jones Fractures

A Jones fracture is a break in the fifth metatarsal, the long bone on the outside of the foot.these fractures often occur due to repetitive stress or a sudden, forceful impact. Treatment typically involves immobilization with a boot or cast, and in certain specific cases, surgery is necessary to ensure proper healing. According to the American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons,surgical intervention is often recommended for athletes who wish to return to high-level activity.

Frequently Asked Questions about Max Strus’ Injury

• What is a Jones fracture? A Jones fracture is a break in the fifth metatarsal bone in the foot.
• how long will max Strus be out? He is expected to miss approximately three to four months.
• What impact will this injury have on the Cavaliers? It creates a significant gap in their perimeter shooting and overall offensive capabilities.
• Is this a recurring issue for Max Strus? Yes, he previously suffered an ankle sprain during off-season workouts last year.
• What is the typical treatment for a Jones fracture? Treatment can range from immobilization to surgery, depending on the severity of the fracture.

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What impact will Max Strus’s 3-4 month recovery timeline have on the Cavaliers’ early season performance?

details of Max Strus’s Foot Injury & Surgical Procedure

Cleveland Cavaliers shooting guard Max Strus recently underwent successful surgery to address a left foot injury. The team announced on August 30, 2025, that Strus is expected to miss the next 3-4 months, sidelining him for the start of the 2025-2026 NBA season. While the specific nature of the foot injury hasn’t been fully disclosed,reports indicate it’s a bone contusion that required surgical intervention to ensure a full recovery.

This injury occurred during an offseason workout, prompting the Cavaliers to seek specialist evaluation. The surgical procedure was performed by a leading foot and ankle specialist, aiming for a complete and lasting resolution to the issue. The team is prioritizing a cautious approach to his rehabilitation to prevent any recurrence.

Impact on the Cavaliers’ Roster & Season Outlook

The absence of Max Strus presents a significant challenge for the Cavaliers heading into the new season. Strus was acquired in the offseason via a three-team trade and was expected to play a crucial role as a perimeter shooter and floor spacer.

Hear’s a breakdown of the potential impact:

Offensive Firepower: Strus averaged 13.7 points per game with the Miami Heat last season, shooting 35% from three-point range. His shooting ability will be sorely missed, particularly in the early stages of the season.

Rotation Adjustments: Coach J.B. Bickerstaff will need to adjust the Cavaliers’ rotation to compensate for Strus’s absence.Players like Isaac Okoro and Dean Wade will likely see increased playing time and opportunities.

Potential Trade Activity: The Cavaliers may explore potential trade options to add shooting depth, although any significant move would likely depend on the availability of suitable players.

Development Opportunities: This injury creates an opportunity for younger players on the roster to step up and demonstrate their capabilities.

Recovery Timeline & Rehabilitation Process

A 3-4 month recovery period is a standard timeline for this type of foot surgery. Though, the actual recovery duration can vary depending on individual factors and the progress of rehabilitation.

The rehabilitation process will likely involve the following stages:

1. Initial Phase (Weeks 1-4): Focus on reducing swelling, pain management, and protecting the surgical site. Non-weight-bearing exercises and range-of-motion exercises will be initiated.
2. Intermediate Phase (Weeks 5-12): Gradual introduction of weight-bearing exercises, strengthening exercises, and proprioceptive training. The goal is to restore range of motion,strength,and balance.
3. Advanced Phase (Weeks 13-16+): Sport-specific training, including running, jumping, and shooting drills. A gradual return to full basketball activities will be implemented, with close monitoring by the team’s medical staff.

The cavaliers’ medical team will closely monitor Strus’s progress throughout the rehabilitation process, ensuring he returns to the court at full strength and without any lingering issues. Regular imaging and functional assessments will be conducted to track his recovery.

Past Precedent: NBA Player Foot Injury Recovery

Foot injuries are unfortunately common in the NBA. Several players have successfully returned from similar procedures, demonstrating that a full recovery is absolutely possible.

Kevin Durant (Jones Fracture): Durant missed significant time due to a Jones fracture in his foot but returned to All-Star form.

Blake Griffin (Toe Injury): Griffin battled toe injuries throughout his career, requiring multiple procedures and rehabilitation periods.

Kyrie Irving (Knee & Foot Issues): Irving has dealt with various knee and foot ailments, highlighting the challenges of maintaining foot health in a demanding sport.

These cases underscore the importance of a extensive rehabilitation program and a patient approach to recovery. The Cavaliers will likely draw upon these experiences to optimize Strus’s rehabilitation plan.

Fantasy Basketball Implications

For fantasy basketball players, Max Strus’s injury has significant implications. He was a widely-drafted player due to his projected role as a key contributor for the Cavaliers.

Waiver Wire Targets: Players like Dean Wade and Isaac Okoro become potential waiver wire targets, as they