The Cleveland Cavaliers’ promising start to the season has taken a worrying turn tonight. Against the Detroit Pistons, Cavs guard Sam Merrill was forced to leave the floor early after starting the game strongly. After becoming a steady starter in Cleveland’s rotation in place of the injured Darius Garland, his exit prompted instant concern from Cavs teammates and fans. This kind of unexpected pause could shift the rhythm of a team looking to get out to an early lead in the Eastern Conference.

Soon afterward, the picture became clearer but more concerning. Merrill left the court with the team’s athletic trainer after being spotted grimacing and crouching following the team’s timeout in the third quarter. It was later revealed that he had suffered a hip contusion and would not return for th

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