The Warriors sign old player Jerome? They may compete with the 5 teams, with an estimated annual salary of 12 million to 14 million

On May 23, according to the Cavaliers Fedor, in addition to the Cavaliers, the Warriors, Spurs, Mavericks and Nuggets are also potential suitors for defender Jerome. An Eastern Conference executive predicts that Jerome's annual salary in the free agent market is expected to be between $12 million and $14 million. This season, Jerome's annual salary is only $2.56 million. Altman, president of basketball operations at the Cavaliers, expressed his hope to re-sign Jerome in the offseason. Although the Cavaliers expect their salary to exceed the second rich line next season, the team can use Jerome's "early bird rights" to complete the contract renewal.

However, due to the existence of luxury tax penalties, the cost of retaining Jerome is still very high. Jerome averaged 12.5 points, 2.5 rebounds and 3.4 assists per game this season, shooting 51.6% from the field and 43.9% from three-point shooting, ranking third in the Sixth Man of the Year award. As Eastern executives predict, Jerome's annual salary in the free market could reach $12-14 million, making him a target for a team with a full middle class special ($14.1 million) this summer. Fedor noted that despite Jerome's breakthrough performance last season, he was still regarded as a substitute rather than a starter, especially in the second round of the Cavaliers' series against the Pacers, where he became a weak point for his opponents to target on the defensive end. This positioning may to some extent limit the 27-year-old's salary cap and reduce his chances of overtaking a middle-class contract.

Fedor mentioned that the Warriors, Spurs and Mavericks are all potential suitors for Jerome, and sources say the Nuggets are also interested in it, but the cap space issue may prevent them from competing. Unless the Mavericks make layoffs and pay cuts, they may also be restricted.

Jerome played for the Warriors in the 2022-23 season. At that time, he played 45 regular season games for the Warriors, averaging 18.1 minutes per game, contributing 6.9 points and 3 assists. The Pistons may need to add staff in the backcourt (Schroeder and Beasley will enter the free market), but a source close to Jerome said the Pistons may have "slim hope". Fedor analyzed that the Pistons are expected to renew their contract with Beasley first, and Jerome's style may not be in line with head coach Bickstaff's "defense first".

Fedor pointed out that it would not be an accident if Cavaliers boss Gilbert was willing to pay high luxury taxes and Jerome did not receive a contract that was much higher than the Cavaliers' offer - the experienced defender knew he was in an ideal situation in Cleveland.