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Cavs season preview: Sam Merrill – Volume, volume, and more volume.

The Cleveland Cavaliers bench underwent a shake-up in the offseason. Anchors of the second unit such as Dean Wade, Max Strus, Dennis Schroder, and Keon Ellis are no longer on the roster. For a period of time, it felt like…

Published: Thursday, 1 October 2026 at 2:00 PM
Cavs season preview: Sam Merrill – Volume, volume, and more volume.
Key Things to Know
  • Corey Walsh suggests Sam Merrill should receive even greater minutes and shooting volume for the Cleveland Cavaliers.
  • Cleveland's bench experienced significant turnover with Dean Wade, Max Strus, Dennis Schroder, and Keon Ellis all leaving.
  • Merrill averaged nearly 27 minutes per game last season while shooting 42% on 7.2 three-point attempts per game.
The Story in 60 Seconds

Corey Walsh argues that Cleveland Cavaliers guard Sam Merrill should see an expanded role and increased shooting volume following substantial offseason roster turnover. After Dean Wade, Max Strus, Dennis Schroder, and Keon Ellis departed the second unit, Merrill remains an integral reserve piece whose minutes have steadily risen from 11 per game in 2022-23 to nearly 27 last season.

Walsh highlights Merrill's elite perimeter shooting, noting he averaged 7.2 three-point attempts per game at a 42% clip last season. Under head coach Kenny Atkinson, Merrill's off-ball movement and pairing with James Harden created strong offensive lineups, positioning Merrill as a crucial specialist who could absorb even higher usage this season.

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