3 Cavaliers who have impressed in first 2 preseason games

While Max Strus and Georges Niang were the highlights of the Cavaliers’ offseason, Ty Jerome’s two-year deal went under the radar as another potential difference-maker coming to Northeast Ohio.

Jerome offers the Cavaliers another shooter in the backcourt as well as a taller guard to fill minutes when Garland and Mitchell need rest. The former Golden State Warrior has not filled the box score in the preseason, but he has been a positive impact in both games, averaging 4.5 assists and 7 points in only 33 total minutes through the first two contests.

The eye-catching stat for Jerome is his assists, as his career average of 2.6 assists per game would not suggest he has the potential to be an offensive coordinator for the Cavaliers. But, with Ricky Rubio still amicably away from the team to focus on his mental health and family life, the potential for Jerome to slot into the backup point guard role is beginning to seem possible.

The Cavs would not look for Jerome to lead the backup unit often, as one of Garland or Mitchell will likely be on the court with Jerome for the vast majority of the regular season. Having Jerome as an option to lead the offense when needed only adds another layer to Cleveland’s improved depth after this offseason.

There is no certainty that Jerome will be in the Cavaliers’ opening night rotation, but his work in the preseason should earn him a chance toward that reality.