Cleveland Cavaliers guard Ty Jerome delivered a record-setting performance during the team's recent sweep of the Miami Heat in the first round of the NBA Playoffs.
In the closeout Game 4 victory, Ty Jerome tallied 11 assists off the bench in just 22 minutes. The NBA confirmed this set a Cavaliers playoff record for assists by a player coming off the bench.
Jerome's strong play continued throughout the series. Over the four games, he scored 65 points with a 68.1 TS% and shot 50.0% from three-point range on 20 attempts. He added 19 assists against just two turnovers and had a plus-minus of +88, leading the NBA during the first round.
This playoff output follows a breakout regular season for the guard, his best since being drafted 24th overall in 2019. After dealing with an ankle injury that sidelined him for most of the previous season, he returned to play 70 games for the Cleveland Cavaliers.
During the regular season, Ty Jerome averaged 12.5 points and 3.4 assists. He shot 51.6% from the field and 43.9% from behind the arc, providing reliable offense off the bench.
His performance earned him recognition as a finalist for the Sixth Man Of The Year Award, where he finished third in the voting.
Jerome is set to become an unrestricted free agent this summer. His strong year and playoff showing have likely increased his market value beyond his previous $2 million contract.
Teams like the San Antonio Spurs could pursue Jerome, who fits their need for shooting. The possibility of playing alongside Victor Wembanyama may be an attractive option.
Keeping Jerome could present challenges for the Cavaliers given their existing salary commitments to players like Donovan Mitchell, Darius Garland, and Jarrett Allen.
The Cavaliers now advance to face the Indiana Pacers in the second round of the NBA Playoffs, with Game 1 scheduled for Sunday. Jerome stated his focus is on helping the team achieve its ultimate goal.
"I think 100 percent to win a championship, I think that's our goal," Jerome said.
