Cleveland Could Be Underusing Jarrett Allen

Jarrett Allen is averaging 15 points, nine rebounds and nearly two blocks per game for Cleveland, while shooting 63% from the field. He has also made two three-pointers. Those numbers have come in an average of 27 minutes a night, prompting questions about why the Cavaliers are not using him more.

The argument for expanding his role points to Cleveland’s recent losses. Allen posted plus-five and plus-11 ratings in the team’s last two defeats, while the Cavaliers struggled when he was on the bench. In one game, they were outscored by eight during the 18 minutes he sat; in another, the team was minus-16 with him off the floor.

Allen’s limited time has also been questioned against opposing big men. The report highlights Onyeka Okongwu’s strong performance against Cleveland and says Isaiah Hartenstein was beating Evan Mobley on the boards. Allen, who has played in Cleveland since joining during the 2020-21 season, has worked on his outside shooting and has also assisted Mobley on lob plays.

The case for a bigger role is not limited to defense and rebounding. Allen has scored 20 or more points in 91 games, and Cleveland has won 66 of them. He was voted to the All-Star Game in his first full season with the Cavaliers. The argument is that Cleveland should give him more chances to score and keep him on the floor in late-game situations.