“Max Strus’ Buzzer-Beater Lifts Cleveland Cavaliers over Dallas Mavericks in Thrilling Finish”

Max Strus’ Buzzer-Beater Lifts Cleveland Cavaliers over Dallas Mavericks in Thrilling Finish

In a stunning turn of events, Max Strus of the Cleveland Cavaliers drilled a 59-foot buzzer-beater as time expired to secure a wild 121-119 victory over the Dallas Mavericks on Tuesday night. Strus’ incredible shot came after he made four 3-pointers in the final four minutes of the game, keeping the Cavaliers within striking distance.

The Mavericks had taken the lead with just 2.9 seconds left on P.J. Washington’s dunk. However, the Cavaliers quickly inbounded the ball to Evan Mobley, who passed it back to Strus. With one dribble, Strus launched the shot from well beyond midcourt, swishing it through the net and sending the Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse crowd into a frenzy. Strus was tackled to the floor by his teammates in celebration of his remarkable game-winning shot.

“At the end of the day, we have a guy like Max Strus,” said Cavaliers center Jarrett Allen. “Anything is possible.”

According to ESPN Stats & Information research, Strus became the fourth player in the past 25 seasons to make five 3-pointers in the final four minutes of a game. His performance showcased his ability to step up and make crucial plays when it matters most.

Cleveland coach J.B. Bickerstaff praised Strus, saying, “He was the guy. That’s one of the things, that we’re fortunate with this group, is on any given night, we’ve got a guy who can step up and make huge plays.”

Strus’ game-winning shot was the second-longest buzzer-beater in the 3-point era, with only Devonte’ Graham hitting a longer one at 61 feet in a game between the New Orleans Pelicans and the Oklahoma City Thunder in December 2021.

When asked about his incredible shot, Strus humbly replied, “I don’t know. Donovan was out of the game, so somebody else had to step up. I got lucky.”

The Cavaliers were led by Donovan Mitchell, who scored 31 points, and Max Strus, who added 21 points. Jarrett Allen contributed 19 points to the team’s victory. With this win, the Cavaliers improved their record to 12-3 since January 26.

Luka Doncic had an outstanding performance for the Mavericks, scoring 45 points and dishing out 14 assists on the eve of his 25th birthday. Kyrie Irving also had a strong showing with 30 points. Despite their efforts, the Mavericks suffered only their second loss in their last ten games.

Reflecting on Strus’ game-winning shot, Mitchell said, “I didn’t feel like it was going to be that far off. I had a feeling it was going to be close. Just to see it go through, especially with what he did for us in the fourth… it had to be him. You dream of a shot like that.”

The game started slowly for the Cavaliers offensively, but they found their rhythm in the second quarter, making 7 of 9 3-pointers and opening up a 56-41 lead. However, Luka Doncic took over for the Mavericks, scoring 14 points in the final minutes of the first half to bring his team within four points.

Kyrie Irving made his first visit to Cleveland since being traded to Dallas from Brooklyn. He received a warm ovation from the crowd during player introductions and again when the Cavaliers played a video tribute for him in the first quarter. Irving showed his appreciation by waving to the crowd and forming a heart shape with his hands.

Irving’s time in Cleveland was marked by both success and controversy, as he played a crucial role in the Cavaliers’ championship win in 2016 but also demanded a trade. Now with Dallas, Irving has found peace and is enjoying his time with his new team, according to Mavericks coach Jason Kidd.

The thrilling finish between the Cavaliers and the Mavericks showcased the unpredictable nature of basketball and the ability of players like Max Strus to rise to the occasion. It was a night that will be remembered for years to come, as Strus’ game-winning shot secured a memorable victory for the Cleveland Cavaliers.