When Ty Jerome’s move to the Memphis Grizzlies hit the newswire, I’ll admit, I was surprised—and I’m guessing most Cavs fans were too. After a breakout year off the bench, Jerome seemed like the kind of player you’d want to keep around. But as the dust settles, it’s clear: this wasn’t just a routine free agency shuffle. There’s a real story here, and it’s not as simple as “business as usual.”
The Facts: Jerome’s Best Year, Then Out the Door
Let’s start with the numbers. Jerome, 28, averaged a career-high 12.5 points on a scorching 51.6% shooting and 43.9% from deep for Cleveland last season. He was a spark plug, a steady hand when Darius Garland was out, and even dropped a career-best 33 points in January (including a perfect 8-for-8 from three—seriously, how often does that happen?). He was also the first Cavs player in franchise history to hit eight threes without a miss. Not bad for a guy who’d bounced around the league.
But after the Cavs traded for Lonzo Ball and drafted Tyrese Proctor, the writing was on the wall. Cleveland was up against the second tax apron, and with extensions looming for Donovan Mitchell and Evan Mobley, keeping Jerome would have meant a massive luxury tax bill. Still, most fans assumed the front office would at least make an offer.
“It Wasn’t My Choice”: Jerome’s Side of the Story
Here’s where things get interesting—and honestly, a little bit frustrating. According to Jerome himself, the Cavs never even gave him the option to return. In a heartfelt Instagram post, he wrote:
“Cleveland, this past year will always hold a special place in my heart. Although I was never presented with the option of returning nor did last season end how I wanted to, I will never forget all that this year brought.”
No negotiation. No lowball offer. Just… silence. For a player who became such a crucial piece, that’s tough to swallow.
Why Didn’t the Cavs Try Harder?
It’s easy to say “it’s just business,” but this feels like more than that. The Cavs clearly valued Jerome’s contributions—he was a finalist for Sixth Man of the Year, and the team struggled when he was out. But with the NBA’s new salary cap rules, every dollar counts. Re-signing Jerome could have cost Cleveland as much as $90 million in payroll and tax penalties. That’s not a typo. And with Lonzo Ball coming in at $10 million per year, the front office chose financial flexibility over familiarity.
There’s also the question of priorities. The Cavs paid sharpshooter Sam Merrill instead, a move that left fans scratching their heads. Was it about fit, finances, or something else? The team’s silence on the matter hasn’t helped.
What’s Next for Jerome—and for Cleveland?
For Jerome, the future looks bright. He’s heading to Memphis on a three-year, $28 million deal, with a player option for year three. The Grizzlies get a proven shooter and a steady veteran presence—something they’ve needed since their roster shakeup.
For the Cavs, the pressure is on. Lonzo Ball is a big name, but he’s coming off multiple injuries, and rookie guards are always a gamble. If Ball isn’t healthy or Proctor isn’t ready, Cleveland might find itself missing Jerome’s reliability sooner rather than later.
My Take: Sometimes, the Numbers Don’t Tell the Whole Story
Look, I get that the NBA is a business, and sometimes tough choices have to be made. But letting a key contributor walk without even making an offer? That stings—not just for Jerome, but for fans who watched him become a core part of the team’s identity.
I can’t help but wonder if the Cavs will regret this one. Maybe the front office has a master plan, or maybe they just got caught up in the numbers. Either way, Jerome’s story is a reminder that behind every transaction, there’s a player who just wanted a chance to stay.
Would I have kept him? Honestly, yes. Sometimes, loyalty and chemistry are worth more than a few million in tax penalties. But hey, I’m just a fan with a keyboard—and Jerome’s got a new chapter to write in Memphis.
Sam, a dedicated blogger, has immersed himself in the world of content creation for the past five years. His journey reflects a profound passion for storytelling and insightful commentary. Beyond the digital realm, Sam is a devoted NBA enthusiast, seamlessly blending his love for sports with his writing pursuits.