With Darius Garland injured, Jerome scored 21 factors on 20 photographs in Recreation 1, then went 1-for-14 in Recreation 2 and was the defender who misplaced observe of Tyrese Haliburton on the Pacers’ recreation winner. Jerome obtained off to a different sluggish begin in Recreation 3, taking pictures 1-for-8, and at that time coach Kenny Atkinson had seen sufficient. Jerome played just 13 minutes, by far his lowest total of the postseason, as Sam Merrill passed him on the depth chart. By Game 5, Jerome couldn’t get off the bench until the second half. Already dealing with monetary pressures as a projected second apron workforce subsequent season, the Cavaliers may now conclude that Jerome isn’t price retaining if he can’t even keep on the ground of their most vital video games. And Jerome’s struggles within the playoff strain cooker may also scare off potential suitors who would in any other case be fascinated about seeing what he may do with extra touches. -via ESPN / Might 14, 2025
