Cleveland Cavaliers shooting guard Sam Merrill (neck) was a full participant in Wednesday's practice as he continues to work his way back from injury. A neck problem kept him out for the final three regular-season games, but Merrill looks to be on track to return to the lineup for Game 1 of the playoffs against Orlando on Saturday. The 27-year-old averaged a career-high 8.0 points in 17.5 minutes during the regular season, shooting 40.4 percent from downtown. Merrill's shooting ability makes him a good option to have on the bench, but the rotations get tighter during the postseason, and he likely won't see a lot of time on the court.

Cleveland Cavaliers guard Sam Merrill (illness) is active for Monday's game against the Sacramento Kings. This is good news after Merrill has missed nearly a week of action due to an illness. Luckily, it sounds like that illness is behind him and Merrill has been cleared to suit up for this game. His return won't make a huge impact on the rotation. Merrill has only been averaging seven minutes per game, so fantasy managers can leave him on the waiver wire.

Cleveland Cavaliers shooting guard Sam Merrill (illness) carries a questionable tag ahead of Monday's matchup versus the Kings. He's been kept out of action for a couple of games by an illness, but it looks like Merrill could be back in the lineup Monday night. However, the 27-year-old has been rarely used by Cleveland head coach J. B. Bickerstaff, and he's not a viable fantasy option.

Cleveland Cavaliers shooting guard Sam Merrill (illness) won't be available for a second consecutive game Saturday against the Warriors. The 27-year-old is battling an illness and still needs more time off after already missing Wednesday's matchup versus Oklahoma City. Merrill has made only three appearances this season, logging 21 minutes in total, so his absence has a minuscule effect on the proceedings in fantasy basketball.

Cleveland Cavaliers guard Sam Merrill put on a show during Monday's Summer League matchup against the Memphis Grizzlies. The 27-year-old is trying to earn a spot on the roster and performances like this are going to help his chances. Merrill shot 8-for-11 from the floor, accumulating 27 points, two rebounds, and two assists in the blowout win. He only played 21 minutes in this game, so averaged more than a point per minute. The Cavs need to increase their 3-point effectiveness next season. They acquired Max Strus, but maybe Merrill can help as well. His contract isn't guaranteed yet, but performances like this are going to help Merrill's case of making the team.