Donovan Mitchell called Sam Merrill right after he signed: ‘He deserves it’

The Cleveland Cavaliers secured a key free-agent move by re-signing sharpshooter Sam Merrill to a four-year, $38 million contract. Merrill, a career 38.6% three-point shooter, was instrumental in the team's bench success last season, appearing in 71 games (starting only four) while averaging 7.2 points and shooting 37.2% from deep over a career-high 19.7 minutes per game.

Teammate Donovan Mitchell personally congratulated Merrill after the signing, praising his development and hard work. Mitchell humorously suggested the Mormon athlete celebrate with an alcoholic shot despite religious prohibitions. Merrill's journey to this contract involved overcoming early career challenges—as the 60th overall 2020 draft pick, he played just 41 games total in his first three NBA seasons before solidifying his role.

This extension follows Merrill's consecutive impactful seasons as a reserve, potentially cementing his long-term future with the Cavaliers. His retention gains added importance after Cleveland lost elite bench scorer Ty Jerome—a recent Sixth Man of the Year finalist—to the Memphis Grizzlies in free agency. Fans hope Merrill's floor-spacing abilities can offset Jerome's departure and that he'll achieve a career-best year in his sixth NBA season.

The deal raises questions about Merrill's motivation to further develop his game now that financial security is established, adding intrigue to his upcoming performance.