It is safe to say that Ty Jerome has already significantly exceeded expectations since coming back from injury. Signed to a 3-year $28 million deal this past offseason, Jerome was already expected to be a key contributor in Memphis, but his strong start has not been enough for the team to win games.
Jerome has played 8 regular season games for the Grizzlies so far. Despite missing significant time due to a calf strain, Jerome is playing arguably the best basketball of his entire career. Jerome is averaging 19.6 points, 2.8 rebounds, and 5.6 assists. Jerome has been very efficient as well, as he is shooting 51% from the field and making 41% of his threes so far.
It was obvious that Jerome would be a significant boost for the Grizzlies due to his shooting ability and comfort as a pick-and-roll ball handler. However, the Grizzlies have so much going wrong for them that it is difficult for more Grizzlies fans and other NBA fans to appreciate his performances.
Jerome has thrived in a less than ideal situation
One of the biggest reasons the Grizzlies are losing games lately is simply because they do not have enough bigs on the roster available. Even after trading away Jaren Jackson Jr. and Jock Landale, the Grizzlies still have Santi Aldama, Zach Edey, and Brandon Clarke. However, none of them are available, and the Grizzlies' tallest player in the last few games is Taylor Hendricks, who is 6-foot-9.
The lack of available bigs only adds to how impressive Jerome's offensive production has been. Had Jerome currently had someone like Zach Edey for pick-and-rolls, the Grizzlies offense would likely take another significant leap in the halfcourt. It is entirely possible that we haven't yet seen the best offensive version of Ty Jerome in a Grizzlies jersey.
Ty Jerome will likely continue being a significant offensive spark plug for the Grizzlies regardless of who is healthy. Unfortunately, the Grizzlies are 3-7 in March and have lost 7 of their last 8 games despite Jerome's strong performances. With the Grizzlies being shorthanded and 15 games below .500, the door is closing fast on a season turnaround.
Given how promising the Grizzlies looked a few years ago, it is undoubtedly an organizational failure to be rebuilding so soon. However, the signing of Ty Jerome was a major decision that the Grizzlies have clearly gotten right so far. Adding proven vets around the Grizzlies' young talent must continue to be a priority in this rebuild, but Ty Jerome looks like the perfect veteran to bring back winning after this season.
Even though Jerome has thrived since returning from injury, his performances have been more difficult for others to appreciate during the Grizzlies' latest struggles.