Amid a trying 2025-26 campaign, Sam Merrill and the Cleveland Cavs’ injury report was extended ahead of facing the Chicago Bulls on Friday. The Cavs’ injuries have led to trade rumors this season, as All-Star Evan Mobley, Max Strus, and Larry Nance Jr. remain out, with Merrill and All-Star Donovan Mitchell listed as questionable.
Merrill, depending on how his body responds throughout morning shootaround, could be cleared to play before tip-off, per Locked on Cavs’ Danny Cunningham.
“Sam Merrill is going through another on-court workout after shootaround this morning. He’s taking lots of 3s and attacking off the dribble,” Cunningham reported. “He’s still favoring his right hand when catching passes.”
After a 130-126 win against the Washington Wizards, the Cavs lost 119-111 in overtime to the Charlotte Hornets and 127-111 to the Bulls. They’ll look to avenge that loss in a rematch at home on Friday.
Sam Merrill ruled out for Cavs’ rematch versus Bulls
David Richard-Imagn Images
While Cavs All-Star Donovan Mitchell (illness) remains questionable, Sam Merrill is ruled out for Friday’s game against the Bulls. Head coach Kenny Atkinson’s lineup change against the Bulls could be in store once again, as Merrill’s shooting will be missed by the Cavs, especially if Mitchell is eventually ruled out.
Merrill was officially ruled out on the Cavs’ injury report by Friday afternoon. He’s dealing with a sprained right hand, which has had him sidelined since November 17’s 118-106 win against the Bucks. Merrill will miss his 13th consecutive game, as the Cavs will look to snap their brief two-game skid.
The Cavs are 6-7 without Merrill.