With the news of big man Jarrett Allen signing a 3-year 91 million dollar extension with the Cavs, the team’s core is solidified for the foreseeable future. Allen’s latest deal will keep him in Cleveland until 2029, with his extension triggering in 2026. The 26-year-old is the latest Cavalier to receive an extension, following Donovan Mitchell, Darius Garland, and Evan Mobley who are all under contract for at least three more years.
What Latest Extension Means For Cavs
The Allen extension demonstrates that the Cavs front office believes in the core of their roster. Mitchell, Mobley, and now Allen have all received contract extensions this summer, keeping this core intact. Although the Cavs’ cap situation became more complicated with Allen’s deal, the team’s belief in the core likely outweighed any cap concerns.
Allen’s Deal
Allen’s extension should come as no surprise. Despite trade rumors earlier this summer, President of Basketball Operations Koby Altman was firm in saying Allen was going nowhere and this deal proves that. Allen ranks 12th in win shares in Cavs history, underscoring his importance. Additionally, Allen is currently the 11th highest paid center in the league, and by 2026 he will be just the 8th. His deal represents good value for a player of his caliber. This past season, the Cavs’ offensive rating was 6.1 points worse when he was off the court versus when he was. Allen is a crucial member of this Cleveland team. His partnership with Mobley in the front court and stellar defensive play makes him invaluable to the Cavs right now.
If Allen were to be moved this summer to save cap space, the team would have worsened. No center as talented as Allen was on the market making it even more reasonable for the team to extend him. The 30+ million Allen will earn starting in 2026 will look cheap in a few year’s time as the salary cap continues to climb.
Core Four
The Allen deal locks the Cavs into this core for the future. In two seasons with the foursome of Mitchell, Garland, Mobley, and Allen the team is 99-66. As well, the team has made the playoffs both years, including a series victory against the Orlando Magic last season. Cleveland has everything it takes to be a contender, especially in a weaker Eastern Conference. This upcoming season will be crucial in the future of this roster. It is clear the front office believes the team can compete and make a deep playoff run this year. If the team fails to meet expectations it could cause a massive shakeup to the roster. However, with the emergence of Mobley’s offensive game, a top-12 player in Mitchell, and the consistent play of Garland and Allen the Cavs can beat anyone.
It’s rare that a small market franchise like the Cavs are able to retain all of their star players. In today’s game stars are constantly moving within a few seasons. Cleveland is a breath of fresh air to see such loyalty within a group. The team enters this year under new head coach Kenny Atkinson with hopes sky-high.
