Sam Merrill career high performances have become a topic of conversation this NBA season — particularly as he has stepped into a more consistent role with the Cleveland Cavaliers.
In the opening weeks of the 2025–26 NBA season, Merrill has continued to show why the Cavaliers value his shooting and scoring punch. After struggling with injuries earlier in the campaign, Merrill’s scoring ability returned in recent games and he put up one of his better scoring nights on February 1, 2026, finishing with 22 points — including an impressive six three-pointers — in a road victory. The performance was one of several high-impact games for the veteran guard. (Sam Merrill career high in points is officially 27, originally set in December 2023 and matched in February 2025.)
That 27-point game remains Merrill’s career high in a regular-season game, and his ability to come off the bench and flood the scoreboard has helped the Cavs in key moments. Although he has not topped that mark this season, his recent scoring nights have reminded fans that Merrill is capable of lighting up the scoreboard when his shot is falling.
A Veteran Sharpshooter Finding His Rhythm
Sam Merrill’s journey to the NBA was unconventional. As the final pick in the 2020 NBA Draft, he faced long odds to carve out a significant role in the league. After time with the Milwaukee Bucks early in his career — where he earned an NBA championship — Merrill eventually found a home with the Cleveland Cavaliers. His path included stints in the G League, but his persistence has paid off with a secure place on an NBA roster.
Now 29 years old, Merrill has increasingly shown he belongs in meaningful minutes for a Cavs squad battling for playoff positioning. His three-point shooting remains his calling card, and he’s had multiple games this season with impressive shooting percentages that have given Cleveland offensive spark.
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Stepping Up When It Matters Most
Throughout the current season, Merrill has had nights where his influence was very noticeable. In one standout game earlier this year, he hit six three-pointers en route to a 22-point outing — one of his better scoring efforts in 2025-26. The Cavaliers have benefited from his ability to heat up from beyond the arc and change the momentum of games.
Even in games where his scoring totals have been low, Merrill has contributed in other ways — helping space the floor and making high-difficulty shots that keep defenses honest. His value extends beyond pure scoring, as he brings experience, steady playmaking, and veteran presence to the Cavs’ backcourt rotation.
Consistent Growth Across Seasons
Statistically, Merrill’s NBA career has shown steady improvement. While he averaged modest scoring totals early on, his role has expanded each year. This season, he’s averaging double digits in points per game — one of the highest scoring figures of his NBA tenure.
That production comes in part from his improved three-point efficiency, where he regularly ranks among the Cavaliers’ top shooters. With a shooting touch that can break games open, Merrill’s presence on the court demands attention from opposing defenses.
Team Impact and Role in Cleveland
The Cavaliers have experienced ups and downs this season, including roster changes and injury challenges. Through it all, Merrill has stayed ready when called upon. His role as a floor spacer and scoring threat has helped Cleveland stretch defenses and open driving lanes for stars like Donovan Mitchell.
Though he hasn’t been chosen for league showcases such as the 3-Point Contest this season, his shooting prowess is well respected across the league and among fans. Even when he isn’t the headline scorer, Merrill’s consistency and preparation make him a valuable piece of the Cavaliers’ rotation.
Looking Ahead: What’s Next for Merrill?
As the Cavaliers push deeper into the season, Merrill’s ability to make timely shots could be vital in tight matchups. The NBA’s grind means every scorer who can reliably hit from the perimeter matters, and Merrill’s career high scoring nights remind fans of the offense he’s capable of producing on a nightly basis.
Whether he’s matching his career high of 27 points again or providing a key three-pointer late in a game, Sam Merrill continues to cement his role in the Cavaliers’ plans. His journey from draft underdog to trusted role player is a testament to his work ethic and shooting ability.
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