Cavs’ Ty Jerome Drawing Interest From Jazz, Hornets, Grizzlies

The Charlotte Hornets and Memphis Grizzlies are two teams said to have interest in Cleveland Cavaliers free agent guard Ty Jerome, according to The Stein Line’s Marc Stein, with the Utah Jazz mentioned as another, per RG.org’s Grant Afseth.

Jerome just completed a career year with the Cavs but is expected to move on following the trade with the Chicago Bulls for guard Lonzo Ball. Jerome is the Cavs’ most notable unrestricted free agent after they reached a deal with fellow guard Sam Merrill.

Cleveland traded Isaac Okoro to the Bulls on Saturday in a deal that will bring back Ball, bolstering their guard depth. The Cavs also selected Duke’s Tyrese Proctor with the 49th pick in the draft and reached an early free agent agreement with Merrill. All signs point to the front office preparing for potential changes in the backcourt.

Jerome, 27, is coming off a year in which he averaged 12.5 points, 2.5 rebounds and 3.4 assists in 70 games. He was a finalist for the NBA’s Sixth Man of the Year award and played a critical role off the bench.

But keeping him could come at a steep cost. The Cavs are projected to be well above the second luxury tax apron for the 2025-26 season. Any new contract with Jerome would trigger major financial penalties under the league’s updated tax system.

One team to watch is Utah, as the Jazz are in the market for experienced guard help. Collin Sexton and Jordan Clarkson are both entering the final year of their deals and are considered trade candidates. Sources tell Hoops Wire that the team has already explored scenarios involving both players.

Afseth also noted that Utah passed on point guard Jeremiah Fears in the draft, despite showing pre-draft interest. They chose forward Ace Bailey instead, which leaves the door open for the Jazz to pursue upgrades in the backcourt via trade or free agency.

Jerome’s shooting, poise and versatility make him a logical fit for a team like Utah. But whether it’s the Jazz or somewhere else, it appears his magical regular season with the Cavaliers will end at one.

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