Free agency has not been very kind to the Miami Heat so far.
Just weeks after making the NBA Finals, the current Eastern Conference champions have just lost a few important players.
One of them, Max Strus, earned a big payday from another team.
Adrian Wojnarowski is reporting that Strus has agreed to a four-year, $63 million sign-and-trade deal with the Cleveland Cavaliers.
This was a three-team deal that gave the Heat a second-round draft pick while the San Antonio Spurs picked up Cedi Osman, Lamar Stevens, and a second-rounder as well.
Free agent Max Strus has agreed on a four-year, $63M sign-and-trade with the Cleveland Cavaliers, agent Mark Bartelstein of @PrioritySports tells ESPN. In three-team deal, Heat get a second-round pick and Spurs acquire Cedi Osman, Lamar Stevens and a second-rounder. pic.twitter.com/xKAmqlx3aF
— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) July 1, 2023
A deal for Strus had been in the works for hours on Friday night.
It took longer than expected as the Heat and Cavaliers looked for a third team to get involved.
Once the Spurs signed up, the ball got rolling.
Some people online were shocked that Strus was pulling in such a salary.
During his last season, the small forward averaged 11.5 points, 3.2 rebounds, and 2.1 assists while starting in 33-of-80 games.
Honestly? Price tag seems a little high.
— John Frascella (Football) (@LegendSports7) July 1, 2023
There were more than a few Heat fans disappointed to see Strus head to another team, especially only hours after Miami also lost sharpshooter Gabe Vincent to the Los Angeles Lakers.
Some hopeful followers were thinking the Strus deal was the first step to acquiring Damian Lillard from the Portland Trail Blazers.
For weeks now, Miami has been a rumored landing spot for Lillard if he decides to leave Portland.
Are they making moves to have that happen?
Miami setting up for the Dame play. Let’s go!
— Rev. Dr. Doge Christopher Benek (@benekcj) July 1, 2023
And many others were commenting on just how well these young, former Heat players are getting paid right now.
Bruh the Heat players got paid 💰
— KurlyChris (@KurlyChrisTV) July 1, 2023
The contracts that both Strus and Vincent secured are one of the many benefits given to players who are part of a team that reaches the Finals.
The Heat will surely miss Strus, not just for his skills but also for what he brought to the culture.
NEXT: The Cavaliers Add A Key Veteran Early In Free Agency
