Cavaliers Eye Offseason Trade to Avoid Second Apron Penalties
The Cleveland Cavaliers are preparing for a pivotal offseason as they look to avoid the harsh financial penalties associated with the NBA’s second tax apron. With a projected payroll of $219 million for the 2025–26 season, the team is expected to exceed the threshold, forcing management to explore roster adjustments.
One player likely on the move is Ty Jerome. Jerome emerged as a reliable bench contributor this past season, delivering efficient scoring and playmaking. However, his improved performance is expected to attract offers beyond what Cleveland can reasonably match, given their limited financial flexibility.
Compounding the Cavaliers’ cap issues is Evan Mobley’s recent Defensive Player of the Year award, which triggered a salary increase under his current deal. This unexpected bump pushed the team’s payroll even closer to the punitive second apron line, which restricts flexibility in trades, free-agent signings, and roster construction.
Earlier this year, Cleveland made a proactive move by trading Caris LeVert and Georges Niang for De’Andre Hunter. While this helped reduce short-term salary obligations, Hunter’s contract still carries a sizable commitment over the next two seasons.
With stars like Donovan Mitchell and Mobley at the core, Cleveland remains committed to competing at the highest level. However, the team will need to make strategic decisions this summer—including potentially moving on from Ty Jerome—to maintain cap compliance while staying competitive in a tough Eastern Conference.
Leave a Reply