Sam Merrill Signs Four-Year, $38 Million Contract to Stick with Cavaliers

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The Cleveland Cavaliers have made a strong move to secure their shooting depth and roster continuity by signing guard Sam Merrill to a four-year, $38 million contract, solidifying his future with the team after a breakout season.

This new deal reflects both the Cavaliers’ confidence in Merrill’s continued development and their commitment to building around a strong backcourt rotation. Merrill, 28, has found a firm place in Cleveland’s system over the past two seasons, proving his value as one of the league’s most efficient three-point shooters and a capable secondary playmaker.

A Key Contributor

Originally the final pick of the 2020 NBA Draft (60th overall), Merrill has journeyed from NBA obscurity to a reliable role player for a playoff contender. After bouncing between the Milwaukee Bucks and Memphis Grizzlies early in his career, Merrill landed in Cleveland, where he has enjoyed the most productive stint of his professional life.

During the 2024–25 NBA season, Merrill averaged 7.2 points per game in 19.7 minutes, shooting 37.2% from beyond the arc. His ability to stretch the floor made him an essential part of the Cavaliers’ second unit. He hit clutch threes in multiple close contests and often served as a spark off the bench when the team’s offense stalled.

Head coach Kenny Atkinson praised Merrill’s work ethic and consistency throughout the season. “Sam is the kind of player every team needs. He knows his role, he plays hard, and he makes shots. That’s huge for us,” Atkinson said during a recent press conference.

Why the Deal Makes Sense

With Merrill’s shooting ability, basketball IQ, and defensive effort, the Cavaliers opted to lock him in before he entered unrestricted free agency. The four-year, $38 million deal—averaging $9.5 million annually—keeps Merrill on a team-friendly contract while rewarding him for his contributions.

In a league that places high value on floor spacing and perimeter shooting, Merrill’s value only continues to grow. His contract is also structured to allow Cleveland flexibility in future seasons, especially as the team navigates new salary cap projections and potential roster moves.

The Cavaliers have been active this offseason, retooling their roster around star guard Darius Garland and newly acquired Lonzo Ball, who came over in a trade with the Chicago Bulls. Merrill’s signing gives Cleveland a potent three-guard rotation that can provide shooting, spacing, and ball-handling across multiple lineups.

What This Means for Cleveland

The signing is also a sign that the Cavaliers are leaning into their identity—a defensive-minded team with sharpshooting depth and versatile perimeter defenders. With Merrill under contract through the 2028–29 season, the Cavs have added stability to their bench and a sense of long-term planning around their core group.

The deal may also spell the end of fellow guard Ty Jerome’s time in Cleveland, as Merrill’s extension leaves little cap room for a sizable offer to Jerome. With a crowded backcourt, Cleveland will likely focus their remaining offseason efforts on reinforcing their frontcourt and evaluating trade opportunities.

Merrill’s Reaction

Speaking to reporters after the announcement, Merrill expressed gratitude and excitement for what lies ahead. “I’ve found a home here. This city, this organization, this team—they’ve all believed in me, and I’m excited to keep building something special in Cleveland,” he said.

“I just want to keep growing, keep helping us win, and keep knocking down shots when my number is called,” he added with a smile.

Looking Forward

With Merrill signed through 2029, the Cavaliers have solidified a key part of their bench unit. As Cleveland eyes a deeper playoff run in the coming years, Merrill’s shooting and leadership will continue to be crucial to the team’s success.