Predicting where each Miami Heat free agent will play in 2023-24
By Dalton Sell
Max Strus – Orlando Magic
Coming off undeniably the best season of his young NBA career, Max Strus has earned a raise this offseason. The guard was a full-time starter for the Heat throughout the playoffs and put together some solid performances along the way. He had a tough showing in the NBA Finals, sure, but that shouldn’t downplay his impact as a whole. Yet, despite all of that, it seems like the guard may be heading elsewhere in free agency, and the Orlando Magic could be a suitor.
When discussing his impending free agency, Strus said, “This place is always going to have a special place in my heart,” and that he was grateful for Miami. That sounds like a goodbye in every sense of the word. He also highlighted how his role will play into his decision, but also that money could be a life-changing thing. He clearly wants a big payday, and the Heat just might not be the team to give it to him. Per Bleacher Report’s Eric Pincus, the Magic are a team to keep an eye on for Strus, and they have no shortage of money to spend this offseason.
Orlando could give Strus a hefty payday and a prominent role, which could potentially lure him away from the Heat. Nothing is set in stone, as a return to Miami could very well still be on the table, but Orlando should not be discounted whatsoever as a legitimate Strus suitor.