Mandatory Credit: David Richard-USA TODAY Sports
The Cleveland Cavaliers could bring back Jarrett Allen on a hefty contract extension once NBA Free Agency officially begins.
Allen is a low-usage, high-reward type player, and is a solid defender around the rim. He knows his role, is young enough to still grow as a player and is a tremendous fit in Cleveland. The 23-year-old was acquired as part of the James Harden three-team trade last season.
General manager Koby Altman and head coach J.B. Bickerstaff haven’t kept secret their desire to have Allen as a building block at the center position.
“One of our biggest successes all season was trading for Jarrett Allen,” Altman said, per Cleveland.com. “He remains a remarkable fit for us, this team, our culture, what we need. Low usage but high efficiency rim protector and defender who can do everything for you. He loves it here and wants to be here.”
Cleveland Cavaliers: Jarrett Allen’s market is dwindling
Allen had been linked to the Charlotte Hornets until NBA Draft night, when Michael Jordan’s team nabbed both Mason Plumlee in a trade with the Pistons, and selected Texas Longhorns big man Kai Jones in the first round. It sent a signal to Cleveland that they do not have to worry about the Hornets signing Allen to an offer sheet.
With the Cavs as the primary suitor for Allen, he’d be smart to accept such a lucrative contract to keep him where he belongs.