It took some time but the Cleveland Cavaliers eventually got their man. After a bit of a worrying delay, the Cavs finally agreed to a deal with former Miami Heat small forward Max Strus in NBA free agency. It did not come as a straightforward signing, though, with the Cavs having to green-light a sign-and-trade deal with the Heat and the San Antonio Spurs.
As part of the transaction, Cleveland had to part ways with Cedi Osman and Lamar Stevens, who are both now headed to San Antonio. On Thursday, the Cavs bid farewell to their two players as they move on to their new team:
“Your professionalism, leadership, and love for the game was crucial to building the culture we have today in Cleveland. Thank you for an incredible six years, and best of luck in San Antonio, Cedi!” read the tweet.
Osman, who was drafted by the Cavs in 2015, spent the last six years in Cleveland. He now takes his talents and his expiring deal to the Spurs where he will get a chance to not only play under legendary head coach Gregg Popovich but also, witness the rise of Victor Wembanyama.
The Cavs also sent a farewell message to Lamar Stevens, who will now be heading to greener pastures after three seasons in Cleveland:
“The OG JunkYard Dog. Thank you for the grit and toughness you brought to each and every game, and good luck in the Lone Star State!” The Cavs wrote on Twitter.
Apart from Osman and Stevens, the Cavs also had to part ways with a second-round pick. It’s quite a haul to give up, but considering it was Max Strus who they got in the exchange, it still sounds like a pretty sweet deal for Cleveland.