With the 20th overall pick last night, the Cleveland Cavaliers selected Jaylon Tyson out of Cal Berkeley. The young wing is the latest player to don the wine and gold so let’s see how he fits in.
Cavs Take Cal Star in First Round of NBA Draft
About Jaylon Tyson
Jaylon Tyson is a versatile offensive wing. Tyson, 21, played his freshman season at Texas before transferring to Texas Tech a year later. The Cavs draft pick started every game for the Red Raiders in 2022-23 where he shot 40% from three on 3.5 attempts per game. He finished his sophomore season averaging 10.7 points, 6.1 rebounds, and 1.8 stocks per game.
Following his sophomore season, Tyson would transfer to California Berkeley where he would truly break out. In his only season with the Golden Bears, he averaged 19.6 points, 6.5 rebounds, and 3.5 assists. Though he stands at nearly 6’6″ and profiles as a wing, he was a primary ball-handler for the Golden Bears. There he showcased his strong ball handling and pass ability from the wing spot. Tyson will not assume the duties of point guard, as the Cavs have both Darius Garland and Donovan Mitchell as their primary ball-handlers and passers.
Tyson’s Strengths lie in his hustle, as a 6’6″ wing he averaged over six rebounds per game in his last two seasons of play and nearly two offensive rebounds per game. Due to his role in the Cal offense, he is extremely comfortable scoring off the dribble and creating his shot. It’s something the Cavs bench lacks. However, he will not be a primary ball-handler in the Cavs offense requiring him to play off-ball. The Ringer’s Kevin O’Connor believes Tyson is a capable shooter of the catch in his breakdown of the player. Considering the weaknesses of the Cavs bench adding a player like Tyson brings immense value to Kenny Atkinson’s team.
Tyson’s Fit in Cleveland
The Cavs bench was a major issue last season in the playoffs. Tyson brings a level of scoring Cleveland has lacked outside of Caris LeVert. Even with LeVert, the Cavs have lacked consistent scoring. Tyson’s ability off the bounce and shooting from behind the line is exactly what the Cavs are targeting this offseason. With his 6’6″ 218 lb frame, he can provide a spark on the glass and defensively even when his shooting is off.
The Cavs have run out players like Georges Niang, Isaac Okoro, and Dean Wade in a similar ‘3&D’ role. However, while Tyson may not start as an elite defender his size and length will allow him to grow into the role. Also, Jaylon’s offensive game exceeds the Cavs’ current wings, making him a valuable part of the rotation from day one. Tyson is not necessarily a reliable consistent shooter, just like his Cavs teammates. However, his creation skills and inside scoring will allow him to earn playing time in his rookie campaign.
Pro Comparison
Bleacher Report has compared the Cavs draft pick to Miami Heat wing Caleb Martin. Martin was a valuable part of the Heat’s NBA Finals team in 2023 and if Tyson is anywhere near him, he will be a great addition to Cleveland.
