Cavs’ unheralded hero that made Game 5 comeback vs. Pistons possible

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Paolo Mariano, ClutchPoints

Thu, May 14, 2026 at 4:07 AM UTC ·

2 min read

Cavs’ unheralded hero that made Game 5 comeback vs. Pistons possible appeared first on ClutchPoints . Add ClutchPoints as a Preferred Source by clicking here .

The Cleveland Cavaliers are now just a win away from advancing to the conference finals for the first time since 2018 after escaping the Detroit Pistons in overtime, 117-113, in Game 5 at Little Caesars Arena on Wednesday.

The Cavaliers took a 3-2 lead in the best-of-seven contest after winning the last three games.

James Harden delivered a masterful performance with 30 points, eight rebounds, six assists, and three steals to lead the Wine and Gold. Donovan Mitchell added 21 points, four rebounds, and three assists, while Evan Mobley logged 19 points, eight rebounds, eight assists, and three blocks.

Max Strus should also be credited. He finished with 20 points, including six three-pointers, and eight rebounds in 36 minutes off the bench. The Associated Press’ Brian Mahoney noted how Strus was a key piece in the Cavaliers’ win.

“Strus hit a ton of shots that kept it within striking distance until the stars came through,” wrote Mahoney on X.

According to StatMuse, he has been in the top 10 in three-pointers made in the playoffs since 2020.

The 30-year-old wingman also did a decent job of making Cade Cunningham work for his points.

Strus only played 12 games in the regular season due to a major left foot injury. Since his return, he has been a key piece for the Cavaliers , particularly in the playoffs, where he is averaging 10.5 points, 2.3 three-pointers, 5.1 rebounds, and 2.0 assists.

Strus, Dennis Schroder , and Sam Merrill have been the Cavaliers’ shock troopers, ensuring that the squad does not regress when Harden and Mitchell take a breather.

The Cavaliers can eliminate the Pistons in Game 6 at Rocket Arena on Friday.