The Cleveland Cavaliers got a blowout win over the Los Angeles Lakers and LeBron James’ return to his hometown. The Cavs are starting to find a groove over the past few games, and they’re getting contributions from several different players, especially with injuries piling up. Darius Garland has been sidelined, and Jaylon Tyson is stepping up and answering the call for the Cavs. Against the Lakers, he finished with 20 points, six rebounds, and six assists.

After only averaging 3.6 points last season, Tyson is averaging 13.8 points this season, and his minutes have skyrocketed. Following the Lakers’ game, Tyson spoke about his career as a whole and how he was doubted when he was just a kid.

“I was cut my 9th grade year, and I was told that I wasn’t athletic enough
 I’ll never let nobody ever say that about me ever again,” Tyson said.

With Donovan Mitchell sitting beside, he reminded that one of the greatest players to ever pick up a basketball was doubted.

“Michael Jordan got cut, too,” Mitchell said.

“I’m not Michael Jordan,” Tyson responded.

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It was a funny back and forth, and Tyson knows that he has his own story. There’s no doubt that he will continue to make an impact for the Cavs as they continue to try to climb up the standings.

Right now, they’re missing two key players in Garland and Evan Mobley, who is set to miss a few weeks with a calf strain. For the time being, the Cavs have to rely on their depth, as well as Mitchell, who is known for scoring at a high level when needed.

If the Cavs can stay afloat while they’re down with injuries, they should be in good shape later in the season. There’s also a possibility that they search for trades before the deadline.