Sam Merrill reportedly went through a post-practice workout with the Cleveland Cavaliers today. The three-point sniper has been sidelined since November 17 with a hand sprain.
“Sam, as you can see, really good news, is actually shooting,” Kenny Atkinson said after practice today. “He’s actually shooting with his shooting hand, which is a pleasant sight to see.”
Merrill is averaging 13.9 points on 44.4% three-point shooting this season. He nailed six three-pointers in his last game against the Milwaukee Bucks and is averaging the third most three-pointers per game in the NBA, behind Donovan Mitchell and Stephen Curry.
The Cavaliers could certainly use someone like Merrill back in the lineup. They’ve fallen to 22nd in three-point percentage and haven’t been able to generate consistent offense this season. Merrill, with his ability to get open on the perimeter, would be welcomed back.
Atkinson also provided updates on two other Cavaliers. He said that Jarrett Allen competed in about half of today’s practice and that nothing has changed with Max Strus’ timeline as he works his way back from a foot injury.
As for Darius Garland, Atkinson says he has been encouraged by the subtle progression Garland has made this season with his toe injury. He isn’t back to the level he was last season — but that was to be expected. Right now, the team is looking for gradual improvements in his mobility.
“Definitely getting better from what I’ve seen, when I watch the film,” Atkinson said. “Obviously, he’s not back to where he was last year. But, I think the good thing is our expectations were not that — it’s a different type of injury… I think we’re seeing more and more flashes of DG, we just gotta continue to have patience with this process.”
Cleveland is 14-11 and is using this break in the schedule to reset. That means fixing things in practice, getting some much-needed rest, and hopefully, getting a bit healthier. Their next game is on Friday against the Washington Wizards.
“I keep using the word rest, mentally, physically, emotionally, just reset yourself,” Atkinson said. “It makes you feel good about how we approach this next stretch of games.”