The Cleveland Cavaliers seem likely to trade Jarrett Allen this summer. It’s not guaranteed, but it does feel likely. In this year’s NBA playoffs, his pairing with Evan Mobley looked questionable. The Cavaliers looked slow. Moreover, the combined spacing between the duo was subpar.
Apparently, they’ve had some trouble finding a taker. This speaks to the declining value of traditional big men. Allen may not have the market that the Cavaliers would hope.
Sure. Allen is one of the best defensive big men in the NBA. If the Cavaliers are serious about trading him, they should find a taker. How about the Dallas Mavericks?
The Trade Proposal
Cleveland Cavaliers Receive: G/F Tim Hardaway Jr., G/F Josh Green, 2027 First-Round Pick (DAL)
Dallas Mavericks Receive: C Jarrett Allen
It’s interesting. The value of traditional big men may be declining. That doesn’t mean the value of big men, in general, is doing the same. In fact, some teams are opting to double down on bigs. They’re playing them at the 5 and the 4. If you’ve got a big man with quick feet, putting him at the 4 can give you a defensive edge.
That was the vision in Cleveland. Allen was supposed to be the primary rim protector, while Mobley was a roamer. His ability to move at his size would help him thrive as a weak side rim protector and switch defender.
NBA TRADES, NEWS & RUMORS: Jarrett Allen, Dallas Mavericks & Cleveland Cavaliers Updates
In theory, that sounds great. Unfortunately, the duo may not fit well on the offensive end. With that in mind, it makes sense that the Cavaliers are rumored to be shopping Allen this summer. Should the Mavericks take him on?
Why The Dallas Mavericks Do The Deal
Well, Dallas could use a defensive anchor. That much is certain. Sure, this team acquired Richaun Holmes this summer. He’s solid, but he may not be a starting-caliber player. Meanwhile, Derrick Lively III will be an unpolished rookie.
By contrast, Allen is well-equipped for the job. Once again, he’s an elite rim protector. With that said, that’s not the only value he’d provide.
NBA TRADES, NEWS & RUMORS: Jarrett Allen, Dallas Mavericks & Cleveland Cavaliers Updates
Allen would also be a strong pick-and-roll finisher to pair with Luka Doncic as well. All told, a big man like Allen could be the missing piece for the Mavericks. Should the Cavaliers give him up?
Why The Cleveland Cavaliers Do The Deal
Well, the Cavaliers do this deal if they don’t see a long-term fit between Mobley and Allen. We wouldn’t blame them if they don’t. In all likelihood, Mobley will eventually benefit from a move to the 5. The Cavaliers can still deploy unique defensive schemes that capitalize on his ability to switch.
In the meantime, this deal solves the Cavaliers’ spacing issues. Hardaway Jr. is o great movement shooter. The Cavaliers need a player like him.
NBA TRADES, NEWS & RUMORS: Jarrett Allen, Dallas Mavericks & Cleveland Cavaliers Updates
Of course, he doesn’t have Allen’s trade value. That’s why the Cavaliers are also receiving an intriguing young player like Green and a first-round pick. Even a traditional big like Allen should be worth that much.
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