Entering his third NBA season with the Cleveland Cavaliers, 26-year-old Jarrett Allen secured a three-year, $91 million contract extension. The deal guarantees him $131 million over the next five seasons. However, this extension doesn’t necessarily mean Allen will be with the Cavaliers long term.
NBA insider Marc Stein reported that Allen was “essentially obligated” to sign his contract extension by Aug. 6 so the Cavaliers could still potentially trade him before the 2024-25 deadline. Allen will be eligible for trade starting Feb. 2, 2025, exactly six months after signing his new deal.
Allen’s current contract will pay him just $20 million per season for each of the next two years, a figure considered well below market value. Even with the extension, his salary will account for only about 16 percent of the salary cap from 2026-27 to 2028-29. This contract takes Allen through his 30th birthday and the likely end of his prime, given the typical aging curve for players with his skill profile.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Jarrett Allen, Cleveland Cavaliers Updates
Rival teams have long viewed the pairing of Allen and Evan Mobley as an awkward fit over the long term. Mobley, a more natural center in the modern game, is seen as the better long-term option, while Allen is limited to playing center due to his size and lack of shooting ability.
The Future of the Cleveland Cavaliers’ Core
Despite the concerns surrounding Allen’s fit with the team, the Cavaliers have remained steadfast in keeping their core together, which includes Allen, Donovan Mitchell, and Mobley. Mitchell recently signed a three-year, $150.3 million extension, solidifying his place in Cleveland’s plans.
With Mitchell averaging 26.6 points, 5.1 rebounds, 6.1 assists, and 1.8 steals per game, and Mobley contributing 15.7 points, 9.4 rebounds, and 3.2 assists per game, Allen’s role on the team seems vital for now. However, the Cavs’ front office appears determined to see how this core performs for at least one more season before considering any major changes.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Jarrett Allen, Cleveland Cavaliers Updates
Darius Garland, another key player, has also been subject to trade rumors, especially after Mitchell signed his extension. Despite speculation, Garland has publicly stated his commitment to the Cavaliers, telling Chris Fedor of Cleveland.com, “I don’t want to be traded. Those are just rumors.”
Still, if the Cavaliers struggle early in the 2024-25 season, the rumor mill could start up again, potentially involving both Allen and Garland in trade discussions as the team assesses its long-term fit and strategy.
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