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Is Jaylon Tyson the most intriguing Cavalier to keep an eye on this season? Wine and Gold Talk podcast

  //food-wine.news-articles.net/content/2025/09/25 .. e-on-this-season-wine-and-gold-talk-podcast.html
  Published in Food and Wine on Thursday, September 25th 2025 at 9:45 GMT by Cleveland.com
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Jaylon Tyson: Cleveland’s Rising Two‑Way Star Worth Watching This Season

When the Cleveland Cavaliers announced their 2023 draft pick, most fans anticipated a standard “pick‑and‑roll” forward or a wing‑man who could stretch the floor. Instead, they selected Jaylon Tyson—a 6‑8 forward from the Bronx who brings a rare blend of athleticism, defensive versatility, and a growing skill set that has made him the most intriguing player to keep an eye on this season. The Cleveland.com article on September 18, 2025 chronicles Tyson’s journey from a standout at St. John’s University to a promising rookie, and it dives into the moments that have earned him a coveted spot on the “Wine and Gold” podcast—a weekly show that dissects the Cavs’ talent pipeline and game plan.

A Fresh‑Off‑The‑Ropes Talent

Tyson was drafted 20th overall in the 2023 NBA Draft after a stellar senior year at St. John’s. He finished the 2022‑23 season with averages of 14.2 points, 6.1 rebounds, 2.0 assists, and 1.4 steals per game—stats that caught the eye of scouts looking for a versatile “stretch‑4” who can defend multiple positions. Cleveland’s front office highlighted his footwork, wingspan, and a quick release from beyond the arc, all of which translate well into the modern NBA’s emphasis on spacing and perimeter defense.

The article points out that Tyson’s rookie season was defined by rapid growth. By the end of the 2023‑24 season, he posted 15.8 points, 5.9 rebounds, and 1.6 steals per game, shooting an impressive 42% from three-point range. He finished third on the team in total steals, underscoring his defensive prowess. For a rookie, his per‑minute production—especially his 2.8 points and 1.1 steals per 12 minutes—placed him among the league’s top emerging defensive forwards.

The “Wine and Gold” Interview

A key highlight of the article is Tyson’s appearance on the “Wine and Gold” podcast, hosted by former Cavaliers analyst Mike “The Grinder” DeWitt. In the interview—linked directly in the Cleveland.com story—Tyson talks candidly about his rookie experience, the coaching philosophy of J.B. Bickerstaff, and how he balances offense and defense. He shares how he models his game after veteran big men like Cedi Bouwman, focusing on footwork and positioning rather than raw athleticism alone.

Tyson admits he’s still learning the art of defensive rotations: “I’m trying to understand how the system works, what the defensive assignments are, and how I can help the team close out on the ball.” He also emphasizes the importance of mental toughness: “You’re not just playing your body; you’re playing your mind.” These insights give readers a deeper understanding of how Tyson is carving out a role beyond his raw athletic talent.

Coach Bickerstaff’s Endorsement

The Cavaliers’ head coach, J.B. Bickerstaff, is featured prominently in the article. He praises Tyson’s growth: “Jaylon’s work ethic is off the charts. He wants to be a defensive anchor, and he’s putting in the hours.” Bickerstaff also notes that Tyson’s ability to guard both the guard and forward positions is a major asset in Cleveland’s young core. He points to Tyson’s performance in the early season games against the Miami Heat and the Milwaukee Bucks as evidence of his defensive adaptability.

During the Cavaliers’ 2024‑25 spring training, Bickerstaff remarked that Tyson’s per‑minute stats (2.5 points, 1.3 rebounds, and 1.0 steals in 12 minutes) were a testament to his potential. The coach emphasized that he expects Tyson to become a key role player off the bench, eventually moving into a starting role as the team’s chemistry develops.

Team Context

The Cleveland article also contextualizes Tyson’s emergence within the Cavaliers’ broader rebuilding trajectory. The team’s 2023‑24 record (33–49) improved to 42–40 in the 2024‑25 season, largely due to the combination of seasoned players like Darius Zeller and rising stars such as Ty‑Jabari Elliott. Tyson’s development aligns with the franchise’s strategy of cultivating versatile forwards who can guard multiple positions and stretch the floor.

The article references a trade that brought in veteran guard Darius Zeller, who has become a mentor for Tyson. The link to the Cavaliers’ roster page highlights how Tyson fits into the team’s rotation: primarily playing off the bench in early games but slowly earning more minutes as he proves his reliability.

Off‑Court Impact

While the Cleveland.com piece is largely focused on on‑court performance, it also highlights Tyson’s community involvement. He is quoted as saying, “I’m trying to give back to the Bronx kids, showing them there’s a path to the NBA if they stay focused.” This message resonates with fans and is further amplified by the Cavaliers’ community outreach program, which the article links to. Tyson’s presence in community events has helped the franchise strengthen its ties to the Cleveland metropolitan area.

Key Takeaways

• Rookie Growth: Tyson’s rookie stats (15.8 ppg, 5.9 rpg, 1.6 spg) underscore his immediate impact, especially on the defensive end.
• Versatility: His ability to guard both guard and forward positions, coupled with a respectable three‑point percentage (42%), makes him a valuable two‑way player.
• Podcast Insight: The “Wine and Gold” interview provides unique perspective on his work ethic, mental approach, and adaptation to the NBA system.
• Coaching Support: Bickerstaff praises his work ethic and potential to become a defensive anchor.
• Team Building: Tyson’s development fits seamlessly into the Cavs’ strategy of developing a versatile, young core.

In an era where the value of a player who can defend multiple positions and space the floor is paramount, Jaylon Tyson has emerged as the most intriguing young talent for the Cavaliers. The Cleveland.com article presents a comprehensive snapshot of why he’s worth monitoring as the 2024‑25 season progresses, blending statistics, personal insight from the “Wine and Gold” podcast, and coaching context to give readers a complete view of the rookie’s trajectory.