Sam

Merrill

Mitchell’s status is far more impactful as it opens up a spot in the starting lineup. Caris LeVert and Ty Jerome are in a position to play more minutes, with the former being the likely choice to move into the starting lineup. As for Merrill, his absence will not significantly impact fantasy basketball. LeVert and Jerome can also absorb some of the minutes that would have gone to the Cavaliers sharpshooter.

Merrill will remain sidelined for a second straight game, freeing up minutes within Cleveland’s bench rotation. While Craig Porter Jr. has moved into the back end of the rotation, Caris LeVert and even Ty Jerome are better streaming options.

This is a bit of a surprise. Merrill tweaked his ankle against the Pelicans last week, but didn’t miss any time. He popped up on the injury report earlier Wednesday and is now out for the game against the 76ers. Caris LeVert and Ty Jerome could get some extra burn while Merrill is out.

Merrill injured his ankle during a win over the Pelicans on November 6 but did not miss any time. Look for him to be part of the Cavaliers’ bench rotation, where he can provide points and 3-pointers.

Merrill tweaked his ankle against the Pelicans on Wednesday, but he’ll have his usual bench role as a 3-point specialist on Friday against the Warriors.

Merrill tweaked his ankle against the New Orleans Pelicans and his status for Friday is up in the air. Caris LeVert and Ty Jerome could benefit if the sharp shooter misses any time.

LeVert will be back after missing their last two games, which means that Sam Merrill and Georges Niang will likely lose out on a few minutes each. LeVert has gotten off to a strong start this season and will look to keep it up against a depleted Pelicans roster.

LeVert missed their last game, which allowed Isaac Okoro, Sam Merrill and Georges Niang to all play over 20 minutes off the bench. With Wade also sidelined, one of those three will likely make the move into the starting unit, with the other two playing significant reserve roles. Merrill should supply plenty of 3-pointers, while Okoro should be the most well-rounded option.

Merrill gave the Cavaliers a needed boost in Milwaukee, shooting 5-of-9 from beyond the arc and scoring a season-high 17 points. He’s primarily a points and 3-pointers option, and the bench role makes Merrill challenging to commit to in most fantasy leagues fully. But he’s certainly capable of the big shooting night, as was the case on Saturday.

Merrill is set to play against the Magic on Friday after missing his team’s last three regular-season games. How he’ll fit into the rotation off the bench after a string of poor performances remains to be seen.