Koby Altman says Jaylon Tyson remains ‘big part’ of Cavs’ future

The Cavaliers may be entering a pivotal offseason, but one thing appears certain: Jaylon Tyson remains part of the organization’s long-term plans.

Speaking at his end-of-season press conference, president of basketball operations Koby Altman made it clear the second-year wing still holds an important place in Cleveland’s future despite a playoff run that didn’t always go according to plan.

“We need him,” Altman told reporters. “He’s a big part of our future.”

Tyson’s role shifted dramatically throughout the season.

The former first-round pick spent much of the year as a regular contributor and even made numerous starts as injuries and roster changes tested Cleveland’s depth.

But after the acquisition of James Harden and other moves later in the season, Tyson saw his role reduced and eventually found himself lower in the playoff rotation.

According to Altman, Tyson was disappointed with his postseason performance, particularly his shooting, but the Cavs viewed his response as a positive sign.

Altman praised Tyson’s toughness, rebounding, defense and work ethic, adding that the 22-year-old has already proven capable of helping a team reach the Eastern Conference finals. He also noted the value of having a productive rotational player on a rookie-scale contract as Cleveland navigates an expensive roster.

For his part, Tyson acknowledged that seeing his role fluctuate wasn’t easy.

“It is difficult. I’m not going to sit here and sugarcoat it,” Tyson said before Game 4 of the conference finals. “But whenever my name’s called, I’m just going to try to go in and make an impact.”

Tyson’s minutes may have decreased late in the season. The Cavaliers’ belief in him apparently has not.