Former First-Rounder Waived, Becomes Newest Free Agent
The Cleveland Cavaliers have waived Cam Whitmore, league sources told @hoopshype. Whitmore, the 20th pick of the 2023 NBA Draft, has averaged 10.5 points on 45% from the field and 35% from 3-point range in 17.3 minutes during three NBA seasons with the Rockets and Wizards. pic.twitter.com/y4FZJjhbhK
— Michael Scotto (@MikeAScotto) August 28, 2026
Whitmore arrived in Cleveland as part of the complicated five-team transaction that brought RFA Peyton Watson to the Cavaliers. In acquiring the coveted 3-and-D wing from the Denver Nuggets, they were also obliged to take Whitmore from Washington to make the numbers work in the trade.
Whitmore was never expected to suit up in Cleveland, however, as the team looked for additional financial flexibility following the deal.
They will save approximately $3.6 million in the coming season by waiving and stretching the final year of Whitmore's rookie contract, and with it, they become apron-compliant at about $1.4M below their first apron hard cap.
Whitmore, the 20th overall selection in the 2023 NBA Draft, has shown flashes of significant scoring ability during his first three NBA seasons. He has averaged 10.5 points while shooting 45% from the field and 35% from three-point range in 17.3 minutes per game.
Cam Whitmore doing Cam Whitmore things 😤 pic.twitter.com/QWOVqhhjIG
— The NBPA (@TheNBPA) August 20, 2026
Last season, split between the Houston Rockets and Wizards, he appeared in 21 games for Washington and averaged 9.2 points and 2.8 rebounds.
Now free to sign with any team, the 22-year-old could be an intriguing option for teams seeking offensive firepower on the cheap.