Is the Cavaliers‘ ship heading toward an iceberg? That’s the worst one could expect! Everyone on the Cavs’ starting lineup has made an impactful presence in the team’s surge this season. Yes, Donovan Mitchell and Darius Garland make the majority of the buckets, but they wouldn’t make it if not for the other role players on the floor. One such player is Jarrett Allen, the 6 ‘9 rim protector. Unfortunately, the big man had to rush to the locker room tonight with an injury concern.

Around the 7th-minute mark in the third quarter, Allen checked out of the game and headed to the locker room. There wasn’t any sign of discomfort before that, as he went by his rim protection duty. Later, a report suggested that the center had suffered a right-hand injury and wouldn’t return for the rest of the game.

Even with his 20-minute stay on the court, Jarrett Allen managed to rack up 10 points and 3 rebounds. It was enough to help the Cavaliers shut down the NY Knicks with a blowout 142-105 win. The big man’s threatening presence at the rim, along with Evan Mobley, not only generated an opportunity for points in the paint but also cleared up space in the backcourt. Donovan Mitchell exploited it to full use, dropping the game-high 27 points with 5 three-pointers.

Following Allen’s exit in the third quarter, Mobley, Tristan Thompson, Dean Wade, and De’Andre Hunter took care of the rim protection. Since the game was heading into the garbage minutes pretty earlier than expected, Allen’s absence didn’t affect the result much. Moreover, as I mentioned earlier, there wasn’t any slightest hint of discomfort in Allen’s game. But there was an occasion in the game that gave away the plot.

A tight-lipped Allen was questioned about his injury in the locker room and, though hesitatingly, he hinted that it may have arisen from a first-quarter block attempt. Notably, earlier in the game, Allen used his non-dominant left hand to slam down an alley-oop pass from Mobley. Nevertheless, let’s hope that the big man storms out of the injury with little damage.

The latest update keeps Jarrett Allen in the clear

Till now, it looks like the captain diverted the ship before it could collide with the iceberg. Just a little scratch on the body. The Cavaliers, who have had a commendable run dominating the league, thus cleared their latest threat, as Allen evaded major risk. NBA reporter Sam Amica updated that his X-ray came out negative.

Moreover, Amica also added that he suspected Jarrett Allen to have injured his hand during a dunk attempt. The 8th center has been recording a career-best FG% of 70.4 this season. Thanks to the Cavs’ insane passing and playmaking skills. Allen had to protect the rim and slam the ball inside the bucket. Even tonight, the 26-year-old had an efficient night, making 5 of his 6 field goals.

Anyway, with the X-ray coming out clean, fans can expect him to take the court next game. Next up, the Cavs will face the Grizzlies on Sunday. Considering the Grizz’s defense-dominant playing style, the Cavs might need Allen’s service. 

Throughout his career, Jarrett Allen has suffered various injuries but nothing can top the 2021-22 season injury. He fractured his middle finger and missed the last 18 regular season games, ultimately affecting the team’s playoff berth. Even though the Cavs won’t miss their playoff berth this season, they wouldn’t want to miss Allen during their championship season. What do you think? Let us know in the comments.