The Cleveland Cavaliers are in a difficult spot going into the 2025 NBA offseason. After a disappointing end to their playoff run this season, they might be at risk of losing three key bench players in Dean Wade, Sam Merrill and Ty Jerome.
The Cavaliers had their best regular season since 2009, winning 64 games as they secured the top seed in the Eastern Conference. Donovan Mitchell, Darius Garland, Evan Mobley, and Jarrett Allen proved themselves to be a highly capable star core as they elevated Cleveland into the championship conversation. However, those hopes came crashing down as they lost to the Indiana Pacers in five games during the East Semis.
They now go into an offseason where a chunk of their roster may be drastically different. NBA insider Matt Moore of Hardwood Paroxysm pointed out Wade, Merrill and Jerome as the players to keep track of going into the offseason.
“It’s sounding like the Cavs’ bench is going to be pretty dramatically different with Dean Wade, Sam Merrill, and Ty Jerome all potentially not being brought back,” Moore said.
What lies ahead for Cavs this offseason
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It’s unfortunate that the Cavs may not have some of their roster back for next season. Dean Wade and Sam Merrill might be sustainable losses, but the chance of Ty Jerome departing would be brutal to their bench production.
Jerome was active in the Sixth Man of the Year conversation alongside Boston Celtics guard Payton Pritchard. Both were guards who provided remarkable scoring off the bench. Pritchard ended up winning the award, but Jerome proved he was capable of being a key player on a contending team. He averaged 12.5 points, 3.4 assists and 2.5 rebounds per game after 70 regular-season appearances. He did this on 51.6% shooting from the field, including 43.9% from beyond the arc.
Jerome was consistent in the playoffs as he provided similar numbers. Despite his efforts, it wasn’t enough as the Cavs sustained numerous injuries to their core. It played a significant impact in their second-round exit, being unable to keep up with the Pacers’ elite offense.
The Cavs can be proud of the significant progress they made this past season. However, they must address key issues this offseason to take that next step in becoming a title contender.
