Published 22 hours ago • loading... • Updated 10 hours ago
Merrill gets MRI on hamstring after Game 1 injury
Merrill played 6:41 off the bench and did not return after injuring his left hamstring in the first quarter.
Cavaliers backup shooting guard Sam Merrill missed practice Wednesday after undergoing an MRI on his left hamstring, sustained during Tuesday's 111-101 loss to the Detroit Pistons in Game 1.
Managing a separate right hand and finger injury, Merrill checked into the opener at Little Caesars Arena with 6:41 remaining in the first quarter, playing just over 6 minutes before exiting.
Averaging 7.6 points, 1.9 rebounds, and 1.1 assists in 20.2 minutes this season, the backup guard appeared in all seven games of the Cavs' first-round series victory against the Toronto Raptors.
Following the 111-101 loss in the Eastern Conference semifinal opener, the roster faces increased pressure while the team evaluates rotation options and awaits further medical updates on Merrill's availability.
Rotation adjustments remain critical ahead of upcoming games, as managing both hand and hamstring injuries will determine whether Merrill contributes to Cleveland's efforts to level the Eastern Conference series.