Max Strus Embraces Glue Guy Role for Clippers

New Los Angeles Clippers wing Max Strus, appearing on the Link with JB podcast, joked about his playing style and outlined his value to the team. Strus said he prides himself on doing the "little things" that help star teammates thrive and contribute to winning.

"I used to have a bag back in college, but I don't anymore," Strus said. "You find what your niche is and you just go at it."

The veteran swingman, who missed most of last season with a foot injury, played well upon his return for Cleveland. In 12 regular season games, he averaged 11.2 points and 5.4 rebounds per game with a .402 three-point percentage. He followed that with averages of 9.6 points and 4.8 rebounds across 18 playoff contests. Strus projects to play a rotation role for the Clippers in the final year of his current contract.

Aftermath of NBA Penalties

In the wake of the NBA's penalties against the Clippers for cap circumvention, questions remain about the team's next steps. Law Murray of The Athletic considered what to expect on the court this season, noting head coach Tyronn Lue will have his work cut out for him. James Harden, Ivica Zubac, and presumably Kawhi Leonard are no longer on the roster.

A Path to Regain Assets

Sam Vecenie of The Athletic, speaking on his Game Theory podcast with Murray, argued the Clippers should use owner Steve Ballmer's wealth. Vecenie's case is that the team should absorb other teams' bad contracts to regain draft capital. He also pointed out that Los Angeles's future cap flexibility could allow them to target a top restricted free agent next summer.

"They could do it where it's, 'Hey, we're going to use our cap space next summer." Vecenie said. He suggested taking fliers on young players who fit well with Keaton Wagler, noting the many ways the team can attack roster building because "Steve Ballmer is richer than everybody else."

The Leonard Ruling Examined

In a separate analysis, Eric Pincus examined why Kawhi Leonard received a relatively light punishment compared to the Clippers for violating the league's cap rules. Over at The Athletic, a series of writers answered lingering questions from the saga. One key topic was how the NBA managed to avoid arbitration when penalizing the Clippers organization.

Strus, meanwhile, remains focused on his defined role. He described himself as a "glue guy" who stays wired in games through rebounding, defending, and making extra passes. He stated he doesn't need to shoot to feel effective, as long as he's doing things that help the team win and make the best players better.