What Should the Grizzlies' Asking Price Be for Ty Jerome?

The Memphis Grizzlies will have to at least consider trading Ty Jerome in 2026-27, but what should their asking price be?

The answer could vary across organizations. A team that's willing to undergo multiple consecutive years as one of the league's worst teams might move Jerome for whatever it can get.

Historically, that hasn't been the Grizzlies. This is a small-market team that typically prefers to stay competitive. Memphis won't move Jerome at any cost, but there has to be a price point at which it would make a deal.

What should that price point be?

Jerome's trade value could be complicated.

In his 15 games last year, he was sensational. Jerome averaged 19.7 points and 5.7 assists per game while shooting 42.0% from 3-point range. Unfortunately, the major takeaway from his season was that he was only able to suit up for 15 games.

If he's healthy, he's any contender's dream. A 6-foot-5 combo guard who can play with or without the ball? What competitive NBA team doesn't need that guy?

Yet, a player who's sidelined by an injury offers zero value. Injuries have plagued Jerome throughout his career. So, there could be apprehension about him on the open market.

Let's assume a best-case scenario. Say Jerome has played in every game of the season on deadline day. That could be enough to convince contenders that he's ready to go this season.

In that event, Memphis should hold out for an unprotected future first-round pick. If the Grizzlies can flip Jerome at that cost, that will suffice. It's the gold standard for a rebuilding team.

If that's not out there, a protected future first and an intriguing young player could be enough, depending on the young player. If that player were a point guard, Memphis may not be able to resist the potential to shore up its weakest long-term position.

What if that offer isn't even available?

Memphis is likely to want to be in the playoff hunt going into 2027-28. So, keeping Jerome wouldn't be the end of the world either.

Sure, he's 30. Again: This is a small-market team that normally prefers to remain competitive. Memphis could opt to keep Jerome and target undervalued young players to eventually replace him.

It would be more optimal to get a first-round pick, but the point is that the organization shouldn't operate from a desperate position. If the Grizzlies can't get a good package for Jerome, keeping him heading into 2027-28 would be preferable to moving him for subpar value.

What's most important is that the team is firm in its asking price.