Tyson Apologizes After Donovan Mitchell City Moment vs LeBron James

After the Cavaliers’ 129-99 win over LeBron and the Lakers, rookie Jaylon Tyson walked back his on-court line that Cleveland is "Donovan Mitchell city now." Tyson apologized at his postgame news conference, saying "There was no disrespect there" and that he takes "personal responsibility." The team had honored LeBron with a 10th anniversary tribute before tipoff, yet Mitchell and Tyson combined for 45 points in a blowout. Tyson is having a breakout year, averaging 13.8 points and 46.4 percent from three, and the Cavs have won five straight to sit tied for fourth in the East. Merlin sees youthful excitement bumping against franchise legend. Tyson likely meant to "give Don his flowers" rather than erase history. If his shot keeps falling and Mitchell stays the steady star, Cleveland’s storyline can evolve without dishonoring the past. Small moments like this reveal how quickly a team’s identity can shift.