Ty Jerome has been ‘balling’ this summer

Jerome will have a chance to be in the rotation this year.

Ty Jerome has been “balling” according to Cleveland Cavaliers President of Basketball Operations, Koby Altman. The 27-year-old guard was a low-key addition last summer for Cleveland but only appeared in two games before suffering a season-ending injury. The Cavs are hopeful this year will be different.

“He (Jerome) had a really good offseason,” said Altman. “If I had to rank open gym in September, MVP of September? Now September is meaningless, but he’s been balling.”

Jerome’s most recent season with the Golden State Warriors is the best example of what we might expect from him when healthy. He’s a 6’5” point guard who averaged 6.9 points and 3.0 assists while turning it over fewer than once per game and shooting above 38% from the three-point line.

Depth in the backcourt isn’t much of an issue for Cleveland. They have two All-Star guards in their starting lineup and a sixth man in Caris LeVert who staggers between them. But in the event of an injury, as was the case last year, Jerome could provide useful minutes.

“We could have certainly used the depth at that position (last year),” said Altman. “After the All-Star break, we were down some guards, it would have been nice to have him.”

Jerome’s game isn’t perfect. He’s hardly played meaningful minutes on a contender despite being in the league for six seasons. Yet his multifaceted skills as a playmaker and consistent shooter will give him a chance in Cleveland.

“He’s got great size, he’s got great skill and basketball IQ,” said Altman. “It’s up to the coach in terms of the rotation but he’s giving himself a chance.”