Atkinson’s ability to adapt to Strus’ absence was evident from the start. When asked about his plans for the small forward spot during an Oct. 21 practice, he emphasized flexibility.

“A lot of teams could be affected by this, but we have some guys that can step in and help us until (Strus) gets back,” Cleveland’s first-year head coach said.

True to his word, the Cavs have used a rotating cast at the position – although not necessarily by design, but out of necessity – and it has paid off in their league-best 20-3 start.

At the heart of that success was Wade, whose return from injury has revitalized Cleveland’s defensive versatility.

On Thursday, in the Cavs’ 126-114 win over the Denver Nuggets, Wade was called upon to step up again as Isaac Okoro left after just 12 minutes with a bruised knee.

The Nuggets presented a unique challenge with their formidable lineup featuring only one player under 6-foot-1. But Wade, who is 6-foot-1, quick-footed and possesses top-notch defensive instincts, proved to be the perfect counter.

“I felt like we wore them down with our depth,” Atkinson said after the game. “Even Isaac goes out and it’s like throwing Dean Wade in there. And we just have incredible depth. … We have a really complete team from first through 18th grade. It’s a pleasure to coach such a group.”

Wade’s defensive switchability shone in the win. His ability to guard multiple positions, particularly alongside Evan Mobley and Jarrett Allen, created a defensive wall that stifled Denver’s offense. Mobley was effusive in his praise, emphasizing how Wade’s presence enhances the team’s defensive system.

“Dean, he makes it a lot easier,” Mobley said. “If me, JA and Dean switch from three to five, everyone is the same size and that just makes it difficult for the offense to get without any real advantage. I feel like him coming back and adding that new element is just going to rattle teams.”

The Cavs’ defense held Denver’s offense under 115 points for the fifth time this season while forcing them to their second-worst 3-point percentage of the season (25%).

Amid the uncertainty, Wade has quietly proven to be a stabilizing force when he has been available.

Wade’s influence goes beyond individual plays. His return has allowed the Cavs to lean more heavily on their rotation principles, an area they struggled with during his six-game absence.

During that span, the Cavs suffered all three losses this season – twice to the Atlanta Hawks and once to the Boston Celtics – teams that took advantage of Cleveland’s inability to effectively handle size and length without Wade on the court.

“That’s the thing,” Atkinson admitted, “if you get Dean Wade back, you could switch more, and we did that, and I think that limited their threes as well.”

While Okoro’s injury against Denver may seem minor, it underscores the importance of having reliable options at small forward. Wade’s play has also raised questions about what the lineup might look like when Strus returns. Atkinson, ever the tactician, relishes the challenge of managing his team’s newfound strength.

“What a big problem for me,” Atkinson said, grinning. “It’s a good problem to have and sometimes, at this stage or this point of the season, it’s good to have a boost of energy. We recently spoke to the staff about this. Man, you’re getting some young talent and obviously one that’s at the top of the league in this league.

“You kind of think, ‘Wow, it’s like we signed a starting player for our team.’ Now we have to figure out what that integration looks like and how it progresses.”

Wade’s resurgence offers the Cavs a lineup wild card for now. Whether starting or coming off the bench, his ability to adapt to matchups and increase the team’s defensive strength has been invaluable.

“I celebrate our versatility,” Atkinson said of the Cavs’ frontcourt depth before Tuesday’s Wizards game. “We can go three different ways. I think that really helps you in the playoffs.

“These guys are so valuable now, and Dean can also defend and protect the rim. It’s, man, what a luxury for our team, for the coaching staff, to have that versatility.”