marus morris

The Cleveland Cavaliers added some depth and experience with the signing of forward Marcus Morris.

The 13-year veteran appeared in 37 games this season with the Philadelphia 76ers. Morris was traded to San Antonio as part of a three-team deal on Feb. 8, and the Spurs bought out his contract on Feb. 29.

After signing with the Cavs, the 6-8 forward will be eligible for postseason play.

In his career, Morris has played in 820 games (509 starts) with Houston, Phoenix, Detroit, Boston, New York, L.A. Clippers and Philadelphia, averaging 12.1 points and 4.5 rebounds in 26.7 minutes per game.

But it’s his playoff experience that makes this such a strong move for the Cavaliers. In 67 career playoff games (45 starts), Morris has averaged 12.6 points and 5.1 rebounds in 30.1 minutes while shooting nearly 41% from 3-point range.

Prior to Monday night’s game in Indianapolis, coach J.B. Bickerstaff rattled off the list of attributes that make Morris a great fit for a young Cavaliers team.

“Just the level of professionalism,” Bickerstaff said. “[Morris is] a guy who’s been through all the trials and tribulations of the NBA; a ton of experience. There’s a toughness to him, a grit to him. [There’s a] reputation around this league of what his peers think about him and how they respect him. And obviously his ability to make shots and compete on the floor.”

With 14 games left in the season, the Cavaliers are looking ahead to the playoffs. The battle-tested Morris is a low-risk waiver-wire pickup for a team that’s determined to advance further than last year.