Max Strus "Very Likely" To Leave Heat; Top 3 Potential Landing Spots

It appears that the Miami Heat won't be running back their Eastern Conference champion roster next season. While NBA Insider Zach Lowe says the buzz around Max Strus on the free agent market is "ridiculous" right now, a Miami insider has even more dire news for Heat fans:

Max Strus is ‘very likely’ to leave the Heat in free agency, per @MiamiHerald pic.twitter.com/6BE5REb86H

— NBACentral (@TheNBACentral) June 30, 2023

According to Heat Insider Barry Jackson, Strus is "very likely" to leave Miami, looking for upwards of $16M per year, and one team, the Cleveland Cavaliers, have already engaged them in sign-and-trade talk. And they lead off our three potential landing spots for Strus.

Cleveland Cavaliers

“The Heat, Cleveland and a third team have discussed a sign and trade in which Max Strus would go to the Cavaliers and the Heat would get a trade exception and a second-round pick," writes Jackson.

The Cavs have been looking for a reliable sharpshooter to help space the floor for Donovan Mitchell, Evan Mobley and Co., and Strus fits the bill.

Portland Trail Blazers

REPORT: The Blazers are interested in Max Strus.

(via @JakeLFischer, https://t.co/vivDe9CMdB) pic.twitter.com/i2VUxCheJd

— Legion Hoops (@LegionHoops) June 30, 2023

Strus would offer the Blazers a perimeter threat at the starting small forward spot, and are known to have interest in the 4-year veteran who set a career-high this past season with 11.5 points per game.

Portland is trying to convince Damian Lillard that they're all-in on finding help for him this summer on the free agent market. Would Strus be one way to placate him?

Indiana Pacers

The Indiana Pacers are strongly weighing a three-year offer for Max Strus in the $48 million range, per @TheSteinLine

“Sources tell The Stein Line that the Indiana Pacers, who are projected to have more than $30 million in salary cap space, are strongly weighing a three-year… pic.twitter.com/ir8JbCwI0U

— NBACentral (@TheNBACentral) June 29, 2023

According to NBA Insider Marc Stein, the Pacers are "are strongly weighing a three-year offer for Strus in the $48 million range.” Indiana has more than $30M in salary cap space, and they plan to use it this summer.  

Photo: Matt Krohn-USA TODAY Sports