Sam Merrill
#5SG · Cleveland Cavaliers
Fan Verdict
Grade this player:
Career StatsC+
| Year | GP | PPG | RPG | APG | SPG | BPG | FG% | 3PT% | FT% |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Career | 218 | 7.8 | 2.0 | 1.6 | 0.5 | 0.1 | 42.5% | 40.2% | 89.3% |
| 2025-26 | 45 | 12.8 | 2.6 | 2.3 | 0.6 | 0.2 | 47.1% | 44.1% | 85.2% |
| 2024-25 | 8 | 5.8 | 2.5 | 1.8 | 0.5 | 0.3 | 37.5% | 35.9% | 66.7% |
| 2023-24 | 10 | 3.3 | 1.2 | 0.9 | 0.0 | 0.0 | 34.5% | 37.0% | 100.0% |
Current Contract
Length
4 years
Total Value
$17.6M
AAV
$4.4M/yr
Contract Value Index (CVI)
Sam Merrill's contract with the Cleveland Cavaliers grades out as a good value contract, earning a B+ CVI grade. At $4.4M per year over 4 years, this is a minimum-level contract. Sam's deal falls in the minimum-level tier for NBA Shooting Guards. At 29, Sam still has productive years ahead, though the contract extends into the decline phase. The front office found good value in the open market with this signing. This contract should provide positive value over its duration if performance holds steady.
Performance Analysis
Sam Merrill earns a C+ Performance grade, reflecting average production for a Shooting Guard. Across 218 career games, Sam has averaged 7.8 points, 2.0 rebounds, and 1.6 assists per game. Sam's strongest metric is FG% at 4253.9, compared to the NBA Shooting Guard median of 46.0. The biggest area for improvement is RPG at 2.0, below the Shooting Guard median of 5.0. Among 147 NBA Shooting Guards graded this season, Sam ranks 26th in overall performance. Sam will need to elevate key areas of the game to justify a larger role with the Cleveland Cavaliers.
Current Sentiment
Sam Merrill generates cautiously optimistic intrigue despite modest C+ production grade this season. His recent offensive improvements and chemistry with James Harden are drawing positive media attention and fan interest. Contract value appears reasonable at $4.4M annually, though production must sustain consistency. Primary narrative centers on whether Merrill can maintain elevated play alongside star teammates. Fan outlook remains tentatively hopeful—improved shooting and Harden synergy suggest potential, but execution questions persist.
Transaction History
No transactions found for this player.