Cleveland Cavaliers forward Jaylon Tyson scored a career-high 39 points on 17 shots in a 117-115 road victory over the Philadelphia 76ers on Friday night, showcasing the two-way abilities that have made him an essential piece of the team’s playoff aspirations. The second-year player also defended Sixers star guard Tyrese Maxey and set up Evan Mobley’s game-winning dunk with a baseline drive in the closing seconds.
Tyson’s breakout performance came with the 76ers defense focused on limiting Donovan Mitchell, forcing other Cavaliers to produce offensively. Cleveland played without several key rotation players, making Tyson’s contribution even more critical in securing the team’s second consecutive win in Philadelphia.
“Tonight, Philadelphia tried to take Donovan out of the game, so Donovan told me to be ‘California Jaylon,'” Tyson said. “That meant for me to go and get a bucket.”
The nickname references Tyson’s college days at California, where he averaged 19.6 points, 6.8 rebounds and 3.5 assists in his lone season after transferring from Texas Tech. Cleveland selected him with the 20th pick in the 2024 NBA Draft based on that production.
Tyson has transformed into the low-usage wing the Cavaliers have sought during their recent contention window. With starter Max Strus injured all season and reserve Isaac Okoro traded to Chicago after struggling offensively, the 23-year-old has filled a crucial role on both ends of the floor.
“He’s kind of like a football player in mentality,” Kenny Atkinson said. “He picks up full court. And he does it again and again. He’s competitive, and he’s someone who can really go out there and defend with ability. He’s very important to what we do.”
Mitchell praised Tyson’s development and suggested he deserves consideration for Most Improved Player. The veteran guard noted the award should recognize players who made significant leaps rather than stars already on an upward trajectory.
“I think he’s the most improved player in the league,” Mitchell said. “He came in, and he has worked on his game, and he’s improved so much since he has been here. He should win the award.”
Cleveland improved to 24-19 with the victory, climbing into the top six in the Eastern Conference after spending over a month near Play-In Tournament territory. The Cavaliers entered the season as East favorites but have struggled with inconsistency and health issues.
The team started 15-0 last season and raced to the top seed before losing to Indiana in the second round. This year’s squad has focused on staying healthy for the postseason rather than chasing regular-season dominance, with Tyson’s emergence providing optimism for their playoff chances.