The Cleveland Cavaliers don’t have a lot of glaring weaknesses on the team, especially when you look ahead to when they are healthy and have a full rotation to deal with. They have depth at guard, at center and a deep collection of defensive wings and forwards.
What the Cavs can use more of, and what every team can use more of, is shooting. They rank 12th in 3-point percentage but just 22nd in attempts, so putting another sharpshooter on the bench could benefit the team in choice situations.
Starting today, NBA teams can sign free agents to 10-day contracts, and with the Cavs having left open their 15th roster spot all season it’s likely they will bring someone on board for a 10-day. Which available shooters could the Cavs sign to fill that spot?
Sharpshooter Cavs can sign to 10-day contract: Sam Merrill
If the Cavaliers want to use the spot on a younger player, taking a shot at finding a long-term piece but not gaining any experience, then Sam Merrill could be a great choice. Most elite shooters who enter the draft hang around an NBA team for at least a few years because of how valuable shooting is, but Merrill has struggled to stick with a team from day one.
A star in college at Utah State, Merrill was the 60th and final pick in the 2020 NBA Draft. He has played 36 total games in the NBA for the Milwaukee Bucks and Memphis Grizzlies, shooting 40 percent from deep. He lacks athleticism and would be a problem on defense, but his shooting stroke is pure and he could be dangerous in the right lineups if he can get another NBA chance.