Forward Samardo Samuels was released by the Cleveland Cavaliers on Sunday, four days before his contract would have become guaranteed for the rest of the season.

The Cavs are not expected to fill the open roster spot right away. Teams can start signing players to 10-day contracts on Monday.

Samuels appeared in 18 games (one start) for the Cavs this season, averaging 3.2 points and 1.6 rebounds. He was signed as an undrafted free agent prior to the 2010-11 season and has appeared in 109 games (11 starts) during his career, averaging 5.9 points and 3.4 rebounds.

Samuels rededicated himself to working out over the summer, slimmed down and returned for training camp in the best shape of his career. But coach Byron Scott mentioned on multiple occasions this season that Samuels’ biggest hurdle remains the mental side of the game.

via Jason Lloyd of The Akron Beacon Journal