In the wake of a rather lackluster Summer League performance by the Cleveland Cavaliers, there was a shining beacon of hope in the form of first-round draft pick Jaylon Tyson. The rookie guard’s stellar play throughout the Cavs’ five games in Vegas left no doubt that he is NBA-ready and poised to make an impact for the team in the upcoming season.
Despite the team’s struggles, with a 2-3 record including blowout losses to the Orlando Magic and Golden State Warriors, Tyson’s individual performance stood out. Averaging an impressive 15.4 points, 7.0 rebounds, and 4.4 assists on 58.8% shooting and 40% from three, Tyson proved himself as a versatile and dynamic player on the court.
In the three games where the Cavs played well, Tyson’s performance was exceptional. Against the Bucks, Lakers, and Pacers, he put up impressive numbers of 19.3 points, 7.6 rebounds, and 5.3 assists. In a dominant win against the Bucks, Tyson contributed 14 points and seven rebounds, showcasing his abilities early on in the tournament.
His near triple-double against the Lakers was a standout performance, with Tyson falling just short of achieving the rare feat. However, it was his scoring prowess against the Pacers in the final game that really turned heads. Scoring 23 points on an incredible 90% shooting, including two out of two from beyond the arc, Tyson’s offensive firepower was on full display.
The 6’6″ guard demonstrated his versatility on both ends of the floor, with strong rebounding, passing, and defensive play. His ability to impact the game in multiple ways bodes well for his potential as a key rotational player for the Cavs. Tyson’s seven steals in five games highlighted his defensive prowess, showing that he can make an impact on that end of the floor as well.
With questions surrounding the Cavs’ bench unit for the upcoming season, Tyson’s impressive outings in the Summer League have certainly caught the attention of new head coach Kenny Atkinson. His all-around game and willingness to contribute in various facets of the game make him a valuable asset for the team moving forward. As the Cavs look to solidify their roster for the 2024-25 season, having a player like Tyson who can do it all will be a significant boon for the team.
