Cam Whitmore Now Unrestricted Free Agent
Cam Whitmore, 22, cleared waivers and is a free agent after being cut by the Cavaliers. The former first-round pick's career has stalled following a trade from Washington and a blood clot diagnosis last season.
Cam Whitmore is now an unrestricted free agent. The 22-year-old wing cleared waivers on Sunday, just two days after being cut by the Cleveland Cavaliers.
Whitmore was once considered a potential top-five NBA draft pick after his single season at Villanova. He ultimately slipped to the 20th overall selection in the 2023 draft, where the Houston Rockets picked him. As a rookie, he showed flashes of potential in Houston's rotation.
Rookie Promise and G League Dominance
In his first year, Whitmore played 47 games for the Rockets, averaging 12.3 points and 3.8 rebounds in 18.7 minutes per game. His shooting splits were .454 from the field, .359 from three-point range, and .679 from the free-throw line. He also dominated in the G League with the Rio Grande Valley Vipers during the Tip-Off Tournament.
| Statistic | Average (13 Games) |
|---|---|
| Points Per Game | 26.2 |
| Rebounds Per Game | 6.8 |
| Assists Per Game | 3.0 |
| Steals Per Game | 2.1 |
| Minutes Per Game | 35.0 |
| Shooting Splits | .475/.389/.800 |
His role diminished in his second season. Whitmore's playing time and production dipped across 51 appearances for Houston.
A Stalled Career Path
The Washington Wizards acquired Whitmore last summer, sending two future second-round picks to the Rockets. His time in Washington was brief. A blood clot in his right shoulder diagnosed in mid-January ended his season after just 21 games. His injuries have been a significant setback. His numbers there were similar to his second year in Houston.
With a crowded wing rotation, the Wizards traded him to Cleveland for Tre Mann and a future second-round pick. The Cavaliers had no long-term plan for him. They will reportedly use the stretch provision to spread the remaining $5.46MM on his contract over three seasons.
What Comes Next for Whitmore?
As a three-year veteran, Whitmore is technically eligible for a two-way contract. However, after three seasons on a rookie scale deal, he may be reluctant to accept that demotion. A one-year prove-it deal seems a more likely path for the athletic 6'6" forward.
The question now is which team might take a chance on his skill set. His career stats show a player still searching for a consistent role. The free agent market will test his value.
His next destination is unclear. Teams will weigh his early promise against his recent medical history and inconsistent minutes.
Source: Hoops Rumors