CLEVELAND – The Cleveland Cavaliers have made an unexpected yet symbolic move by locking up Sam Merrill on a fresh four-year, $38 million deal. Merrill, famously the final pick of the 2020 NBA Draft, now sees his perseverance rewarded with the first major payday of his career.
Cavaliers Re-sign Mr. Irrelevant To $38 Million Extension
A Big Leap For Merrill
On Saturday, the Cavaliers confirmed that Merrill, who was set to hit unrestricted free agency on July 1, would stay in Cleveland through 2028. Sam Merrill’s extension underlines the Cavaliers’ faith in the sharp-shooting guard and his growing value in their rotation.
The deal averages about $9.5 million per season — a huge jump for Merrill, who has played on minimum deals until now. Merrill’s agents, Kieran Piller and Mark Bartelstein of Priority Sports, helped close the agreement that turns the “Mr. Irrelevant” label into a badge of resilience.
A Shooting Specialist Finds His Role
Merrill played 71 games for the Cavaliers last season, averaging 7.2 points per game while shooting an impressive 37.2 percent from three-point range on more than five attempts per night. His steady marksmanship made him a trusted piece off Cleveland’s bench.
His role as a floor spacer has been vital for the Cavaliers, who finished among the NBA’s top teams in three-point shooting percentage last year. Sam Merrill’s extension shows how the Cavaliers value shooting depth to complement stars like Evan Mobley and Donovan Mitchell.
Guard Depth Taking Shape
Earlier the same day, Cleveland finalized a trade with the Chicago Bulls, landing Lonzo Ball for Isaac Okoro. The deal, coupled with the Sam Merrill extension, hints that Sixth Man of the Year finalist Ty Jerome is unlikely to return to the Cavaliers next season.
The Cavs now boast a guard rotation of Garland, Ball, Craig Porter Jr., and Merrill. For Merrill, that means his spot as a trusted reserve shooter appears safe as Cleveland reloads for another Eastern Conference run.
From Ten-Day Contract To Core Contributor
Merrill’s journey stands out in today’s NBA. He spent time with three franchises and logged only 350 minutes across his first three years. Now, Merrill has found new life in Cleveland. He joined the Cavaliers on a 10-day contract in 2023. Merrill quickly secured a guaranteed multiyear deal that expired this summer.
Last season, Merrill’s 71 games marked a career high. His consistency and improved shooting touch helped Cleveland finish with the league’s best record at 64-18.
What This Means For Cleveland
Sam Merrill’s extension shows that the Cavaliers’ front office is serious about continuity. Team executives believe Merrill’s shooting will prove vital as the franchise navigates payroll pressures and key free agency calls.
As Cleveland builds around its stars, role players like Merrill keep the offense humming. A reliable shooter who spaces the floor and understands his role is worth every penny in today’s league.
Betting On A Late Bloomer
Merrill’s extension also speaks volumes about Cleveland’s trust in player development. Once an overlooked draft pick, Merrill now symbolizes smart, patient roster building.
If he maintains his shooting clip and stays healthy, this extension could age well for both sides.
Sam Merrill’s Extension is a Win
From ten-day desperation to a $38 million payday, Merrill’s story is one of grit and the value of sticking with your shot. Sam Merrill’s extension might not grab headlines like a superstar trade, but it says plenty about the Cavaliers’ plans for the future: keep shooting, keep spacing, and keep winning.
Credit:© Ken Blaze-Imagn Images
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