The top-seeded Cleveland Cavaliers faced a disappointing conclusion to their playoff run, losing to the Indiana Pacers in Game 5 of the Eastern Conference semifinals. The defeat sealed a 4-1 series victory for the Pacers. Despite a robust regular season, the Cavaliers struggled to carry their success into the postseason, failing to counter Indiana’s strong performance.
In a bid to inspire a comeback, Cavaliers forward Max Strus took the initiative to energize his teammates before the critical Game 5. As reported by Jared Greenberg during the pregame show, Strus sent out a motivational group text to all the players on the roster.
“If you don’t believe, then don’t show up for work,” Strus stated in the text.
Max Strus texted his teammates before Game 5:
“If you don’t believe, don’t show up to work.”
He finished the game 0/9 😭😭😭 pic.twitter.com/YgccxCaozV
— BricksCenter (@BricksCenter) May 14, 2025
Strus felt the team’s performance had been lacking and encouraged each player to fully embrace their roles that evening. It was a rallying cry for teamwork, aimed at extending the series.
Regrettably for Strus, his motivational appeal did not translate into better performances, either for the team or himself. The Cavaliers struggled to keep pace with the Pacers, and Strus had a particularly tough night.
Max Strus’ Disappointing Game 5 Performance
Strus concluded Game 5 without scoring, finishing 0-for-9 from the field and 0-for-6 from beyond the arc in 26 minutes of play. While he did grab seven rebounds and provide two assists, it was undoubtedly one of his poorest outings of the postseason.
In the games leading up to Game 5, Strus had been a steady contributor, scoring seven, 23, 21, and 11 points in the first four games, respectively. During the playoffs, he averaged 9.4 points, 4.3 rebounds, and 3.2 assists per game.
Looking ahead, the Cavaliers will aim to rebound next season. However, this particular game will likely serve as a lesson for Strus, illustrating how a well-intentioned motivational effort can lead to a night he would prefer to forget.
Image Source: Max Strus @ Instagram
