After the Cleveland Cavs All-Star Darius Garland underwent successful toe surgery this week, many wonder what kind of pressure that puts on the front office to sign backup Ty Jerome, given that Garland could miss significant time. Jerome turned in his most impressive 2024-25 campaign, averaging 12.5 points on 51.6% shooting, including 43.9% from deep, 3.4 assists, and 1.1 steals per game.
As Jerome enters free agency with the Cavs’ payroll on the verge of entering the second apron, it’ll be interesting to see how the front office proceeds over the summer as Garland’s surgery adds a new wrinkle, per The Athletic’s Joe Vardon.
Garland’s status — the team gave him time to try and heal on his own before pushing for surgery — could also put the Cavs under more pressure to re-sign backup point guard Ty Jerome,” Vardon said. “He’s eligible for a four-year deal worth $63 million; the $14.3 million salary he would make under contract in Cleveland next year would cost the Cavs $80 million because of luxury taxes, according to an analysis by ESPN.”
Jerome finished third for the 2024-25 Sixth Man of the Year award.
