Dean Wade injured; Max Strus starting instead

Cleveland Cavaliers forward Dean Wade has sustained a bone bruise in his right knee, which is expected to keep him sidelined for several weeks as he recovers.

Fortunately, medical evaluations revealed no structural damage, and the injury is unrelated to his previous meniscus surgery on the same knee. Nonetheless, Wade will need time away from the court to heal properly.

Standing at 6-foot-9, Wade is a versatile forward who has played a key role for the Cavaliers this season, starting in 26 of the 35 games he’s appeared in.

Known for his defensive prowess, Wade often takes on the challenge of guarding the opposing team’s top wing players. He has contributed an average of 6.0 points and 5.1 rebounds per game.

Since Wade’s injury, Max Strus has stepped into the starting lineup, a role he is expected to maintain for the foreseeable future as Cleveland adjusts to Wade’s absence.

Dean Wade Could Miss Multiple Weeks With Knee Injury https://t.co/0ekVeG3Umv

— RealGM (@RealGM) January 28, 2025