𝘽𝙍𝙀𝘼𝙆𝙄𝙉𝙂 𝙉𝙀𝙒𝙎: 𝘾𝙡𝙚𝙫𝙚𝙡𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝘾𝙖𝙫𝙖𝙡𝙞𝙚𝙧𝙨 𝘿𝙚𝙥𝙖𝙧𝙩𝙪𝙧𝙚 𝙇𝙞𝙨𝙩 𝙞𝙨 𝙊𝙪𝙩 𝙏𝙤𝙙𝙖𝙮

𝘽𝙍𝙀𝘼𝙆𝙄𝙉𝙂 𝙉𝙀𝙒𝙎: 𝘾𝙡𝙚𝙫𝙚𝙡𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝘾𝙖𝙫𝙖𝙡𝙞𝙚𝙧𝙨 𝘿𝙚𝙥𝙖𝙧𝙩𝙪𝙧𝙚 𝙇𝙞𝙨𝙩 𝙞𝙨 𝙊𝙪𝙩 𝙏𝙤𝙙𝙖𝙮

In a major development that has sent ripples throughout the NBA community, the Cleveland Cavaliers have officially released their end-of-season player departure list today, confirming multiple high-profile exits from the franchise ahead of the 2025-2026 season.

The front office, led by President of Basketball Operations Koby Altman and Head Coach J.B. Bickerstaff, made the announcement early this morning. The list includes a combination of unrestricted free agents, traded players, and those whose contracts were not renewed — signaling a significant offseason reshaping of the Cavaliers roster.

1. Caris LeVert (SG/SF)
One of the most notable names is veteran guard Caris LeVert, who spent the last few seasons playing a key role off the bench and occasionally starting. With his contract expiring and no extension agreed upon, LeVert is now an unrestricted free agent and reportedly already drawing interest from several playoff-contending teams.

2. Isaac Okoro (SF)
Former fifth overall pick Isaac Okoro is another surprising exit. Known for his perimeter defense and hustle, Okoro was seen as a long-term piece in Cleveland. However, with his rookie contract concluding and extension talks stalling, the Cavaliers are moving on. Sources say the team is seeking a more offensive-minded wing in free agency.

3. Ricky Rubio (PG)
Veteran point guard Ricky Rubio, who took time away from basketball for personal reasons during the 2024-25 season, has been officially released. The team issued a respectful statement thanking Rubio for his leadership and mentorship of younger players, especially Darius Garland and Evan Mobley.

4. Damian Jones (C)
Backup center Damian Jones, who was added mid-season for frontcourt depth, will also not be returning. His departure indicates the Cavaliers may be looking to invest in younger or more versatile big men.

5. Sam Merrill (SG)
Sharpshooter Sam Merrill, despite flashes of brilliance from beyond the arc, has been waived. With the Cavaliers expected to prioritize length and athleticism on the wing, Merrill didn’t appear to fit their future plans.

In a formal release, the Cavaliers organization stated:
“We are grateful for the professionalism, talent, and commitment each of these players brought to the team. As we look ahead, our focus remains on building a roster that aligns with our championship goals and supports the continueddevelopment of our core.”

With key departures now official, attention turns to the offseason strategy. Cleveland retains a strong young core including Darius Garland, Evan Mobley, and Jarrett Allen — though Allen’s name has appeared in recent trade rumors. The team has also been linked with several potential free agents, aiming to add scoring depth and veteran leadership.

Fans can expect an aggressive offseason from the Cavaliers, as they seek to return to the Eastern Conference playoff picture in a competitive landscape.

This developing story marks the beginning of a new chapter for the Cavaliers — one that promises both uncertainty and exciting potential. Stay tuned for more updates as free agency begins in early July.