The Cleveland Cavaliers have found an unsung and unexpected hero in the second unit.
Ty Jerome has emerged as one of the best Sixth Men in the game in the season’s early stages.
The former Golden State Warriors guard arrived in Cleveland last season, but an injury made it essentially a redshirt year with the organization.
He’s been an efficient scorer and shot-creator, but his defense has been the most pleasant surprise.
When asked about that, he claimed that he didn’t want to be the kind of player other teams targeted on defense, so he needed to focus on getting stops and playing good team defense (via Spencer Davies).
“I don’t want to be a guy that teams are gonna go at, and if they do, I’ve got to help hold up and get stops.”
Ty Jerome on his defensive impact as his #Cavs teammates & Kenny Atkinson rave over his efforts.
(I specifically asked about steals/working in tandem with the bigs) pic.twitter.com/Jb4QD2bpsZ
— Spencer Davies (@SpinDavies) November 12, 2024
Through the first 12 games of the season, Jerome has averaged 10.2 points, 2.1 rebounds, 3.5 assists, 1.5 steals, and 1.1 three-pointers per game on 60% from the floor, 54% from three-point territory, and 82% from the charity stripe.
He also averages just one turnover per game.
His advanced stats are even more impressive.
When he’s on the floor, the team has an offensive rating of 141 and a defensive rating of 107, plus an 8.2 box plus-minus.
Ty Jerome isn’t an All-Star, and he’s clearly better suited to run the offense for the second unit than to be a starter.
But as we’ve seen countless times, role players are essential for success in the NBA.
And if he keeps playing smart offense and solid team defense, he’ll be on the floor when it matters most.
NEXT: Kenny Atkinson Reveals What Cavs Need To Improve
