With the recent sign-and-trade acquisition of former Miami Heat player Max Strus, most people have assumed that Strus will take the position of the starting small forward spot for the Cleveland Cavaliers. Strus did play 57 percent of his minutes at the small forward spot last season for Miami, so it is fair to assume that he could become the starting 3 for the Cavaliers, who as of now, don’t have that spot filled out. One would imagine that’s the case, at least.
However, the Cavaliers had another signing before Strus, in what was their first move of this free agency period. Caris LeVert re-signed on a two-year, $32 million deal to come back to Cleveland. LeVert did play 38 percent of his minutes at the small forward spot last year, showing that he is capable to play multiple positions.
Isaac Okoro is also another player who could become the starting small forward. Although, considering his inconsistencies on the offensive end, it seems safe to assume he will begin the year off the bench, and only will become a starter if he improves on offense or because of injuries.
So that begs the question: who will be the starting small forward? Max Strus and Caris LeVert both have great cases to be in the starting lineup, but only one player will take that spot. With that question, that is the purpose of today’s article.
Here are some pros and cons for each player starting at the small forward position for Cleveland.
Let’s begin with the positives for Strus possibly landing that role for the Wine and Gold.