CLEVELAND – Max Strus’s exceptional performance, highlighted by his first six 3-pointers, propelled the Cleveland Cavaliers to their highest-scoring game and most decisive victory of the season, overwhelming the Washington Wizards 140-101 on Wednesday.
Donovan Mitchell contributed 22 points in just 24 minutes, playing a crucial role in snapping the Cavaliers’ two-game skid. Caris LeVert added 21 points in 23 minutes, while Jarrett Allen dominated with 17 points, 19 rebounds, and seven assists. The teams are set for a rematch on Friday night in Cleveland.
Allen, the 6-foot-11 center and former East All-Star, has been in exceptional form, averaging 21.2 points, 16.4 rebounds, and 6.0 assists over the last five games. His teammates, including Strus, praised his phenomenal impact and work ethic, emphasizing his central role in the team’s strategy.
Washington, struggling defensively this season, couldn’t contain Cleveland’s offense. Kyle Kuzma led the Wizards with 16 points, but the team’s defense, allowing a league-high 126.6 points, was once again their downfall. The Wizards, holding one of the worst records in the NBA at 6-27, have not won consecutive games since early 2023.
Cleveland’s rebounding was another key factor in their victory, achieving a 62-36 edge over Washington. Tristan Thompson and Georges Niang contributed significantly off the bench, with Niang also adding 15 points. The Cavaliers’ 53.5% shooting, including 20 successful 3-pointers from 42 attempts, showcased their offensive prowess.
Wizards coach Wes Unseld Jr. acknowledged his team’s lack of physicality and the need to prioritize rebounding. Meanwhile, Cleveland’s approach, as described by coach J.B. Bickerstaff, has been to adapt to their current roster limitations by focusing on aggressive 3-point shooting, a strategy that paid off handsomely in this game.
The Cavaliers led the game with confidence, highlighted by Strus’s 21 points in the first half and a buzzer-beating 3-pointer from Mitchell to end the second quarter. Strus reflected on the team’s recent strategy, emphasizing the enjoyment and effectiveness of their current style of play.
As Cleveland prepares for their next matchup without key players Darius Garland and Evan Mobley, this victory serves as a testament to their adaptability and depth. The upcoming rematch with the Wizards offers another opportunity for the Cavaliers to demonstrate their resilience and offensive capabilities.
