Merrill injured his ankle during the second quarter of Tuesday's game while playing on defense. His absence would not significantly impact fantasy basketball, as Dean Wade and Max Strus are both healthy. Merrill should only be rostered when he can fill in for an injured starter.
Fantasy managers have grown accustomed to Evan Mobley and Jarrett Allen recording double-doubles this season. However, it was Wade who did the honors on Monday night. A double-digit scorer in three of his last four outings, the Cavaliers forward recorded his first double-double of the season, including a season-high 13 rebounds. With Max Strus still under a minutes restriction and Isaac Okoro out, Wade will remain a starter for now. However, he's only worth consideration in extremely deep leagues, as nights like Monday have not been the norm.
Wade will be back after missing their last game, which should result in Sam Merrill being pushed back to the bench. Merrill started and knocked down six 3-pointers as a starter, but he won't be worth streaming as a reserve. However, if Merrill remains in the starting unit despite Wade's return, then he will have some streaming upside.
Wade did not play in Monday's win over the Jazz, and the Cavaliers were also without Isaac Okoro. Sam Merrill started and hit six 3-pointers, and if Wade cannot play, he is worth streaming.
With both Isaac Okoro and Dean Wade sidelined, Merrill got his second start of the season, and it went far better than the first. He set season-highs for points, steals and 3-pointers while helping the Cavs win their fifth straight game. They don't play again until Friday, which will be their final game of the week. However, if Okoro and Wade remain out for one more game, Merrill should have another opportunity to be worth streaming. Unfortunately, if your league has a limit on roster moves, it may not be worth it for just one more game.