Max Strus Hits Buzzer-Beater To Lift Cavaliers Over Mavericks

Cleveland Cavaliers guard Darius Garland, left, and Dallas Mavericks guard Josh Green fall to the court during the second half of an NBA basketball game Tuesday, Feb. 27, 2024, in Cleveland. (AP Photo

In a heart-stopping game against the Dallas Mavericks, the Cleveland Cavaliers emerged victorious with a spectacular buzzer-beater by Max Strus. Strus, who had already sunk four 3-pointers in the final four minutes, launched a 59-footer as time expired to seal a 121-119 win for the Cavs.

The game reached its climax when P.J. Washington's dunk gave the Mavericks a narrow lead with just 2.9 seconds left on the clock. With no timeouts remaining, the Cavaliers inbounded the ball to Evan Mobley, who quickly passed it back to Strus. The sharpshooter wasted no time in releasing the shot from well beyond mid-court, sending the Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse crowd into a frenzy.

Strus, who finished with 21 points, expressed confidence in his game-winning shot, stating that he felt a rhythm throughout the game. His heroic performance in the fourth quarter, alongside Donovan Mitchell's 31 points and Jarrett Allen's 19 points, propelled the Cavaliers to their 12th win in the last 15 games.

Donovan Mitchell and Jarrett Allen contribute to Cavaliers' victory.

Max Strus' 59-foot buzzer-beater secures win for Cavs.

Luka Doncic's impressive performance not enough for Mavericks.

Kyrie Irving returns to Cleveland, receives warm reception.

Strus' leadership and resilience praised by Coach Bickerstaff.

Cavaliers win 12th game in last 15 matchups.

Irving expresses gratitude towards Cleveland for launching his career.

Cavaliers face Chicago Bulls next, Mavericks play Toronto Raptors.

Strus' game-winning shot becomes a memorable moment for Cavaliers fans.

Cavaliers and Mavericks gear up for their upcoming games after thrilling matchup.

Despite Luka Doncic's impressive 45-point, 14-assist performance for the Mavericks, it was Strus' remarkable shot that stole the spotlight. Doncic acknowledged his defensive lapse on the final play, attributing the loss to his own mistake.

The game marked Kyrie Irving's return to Cleveland since being traded to Dallas, with the former Cavaliers star receiving a warm reception from the fans. Irving, who played a significant role in Cleveland's 2016 NBA Finals victory, expressed gratitude towards the city that launched his career.

Coach J.B. Bickerstaff praised Strus for his resilience and leadership on the court, highlighting his impact on both ends of the floor. The Cavaliers now look ahead to their upcoming matchup against the Chicago Bulls, while the Mavericks will face the Toronto Raptors in their next game.

This thrilling victory will undoubtedly be etched in the memories of Cavaliers fans, as Max Strus' heroic shot cements his place in Cleveland's basketball lore.

UP NEXT

Mavericks: At Toronto on Wednesday.

Cavaliers: At Chicago on Wednesday.