The Cleveland Cavaliers haven’t needed to turn to their rookie this season.
Jaylon Tyson has barely played, but he’s been very impressive when given an opportunity to showcase his skills.
Notably, that was the case again in the double-overtime loss to the Indiana Pacers.
As shown by Cavs Notes on X, his 31 points were the most by a Cavs rookie since 2021 when Isaac Okoro dropped 32 against the Phoenix Suns.
.@jaylontyson's 31 PTS today were the most by a @cavs rookie since May 4, 2021 (Isaac Okoro, 32 PTS vs. PHX).#LetEmKnow
— Cavs Notes (@CavsNotes) April 13, 2025
Tyson stuffed the stat sheet, and he made big play after big play on both ends of the floor all night long.
He embraced a leadership role right out of the gate, leading the team not only in points scored but also in shots taken.
Tyson dropped 31 on 12 of 25 from the floor, 3 of 4 from the free-throw line, and 4 of 12 from beyond the arc.
He also grabbed seven rebounds, handed out four assists, logged three steals, and blocked one shot.
Kenny Atkinson opted to rest his top nine players, and Jarrett Allen joined them on the sidelines shortly after tip-off.
With Donovan Mitchell, Darius Garland, Isaac Okoro, Ty Jerome, Max Strus, Dean Wade, Evan Mobley, Sam Merrill, and De’Andre Hunter all in street clothes, someone had to step up.
Tyson has stayed ready all year long, and he will be an interesting option for Kenny Atkinson if things get tricky in a seven-game series.
He has a high basketball IQ and can clearly make winning plays on both ends of the floor.
So, even though working his way to the court won’t be easy, especially in the postseason, giving him a look in the playoffs might not be the craziest idea.
NEXT: Kenny Atkinson Raves About Cavs' Young Players On Sunday
