The Cleveland Cavaliers are about to battle against the Indiana Pacers in the second round of the NBA playoffs.
This might be a very intense and physical series, and Cleveland’s big man Jarrett Allen could be pushed to his limits.
According to Evan Dammarell, head coach Kenny Atkinson said that Allen’s “next evolution” is defending “floor-spacing bigs like Indiana’s Myles Turner.”
“However, while Atkinson admits it’ll be a challenge for Allen, he believes Cleveland’s big man can rise to the occasion,” Dammarell wrote.
#Cavs head coach admitted that Jarrett Allen’s next evolution is defending floor-spacing bigs like Indiana’s Myles Turner.
However, while Atkinson admits it’ll be a challenge for Allen, he believes Cleveland’s big man can rise to the occasion.
— Evan Dammarell (@AmNotEvan) May 1, 2025
This has been a season full of evolution and growth for Allen, who averaged 13.5 points and 9.7 rebounds per game in 2024-25.
Although his numbers may have been a little softer than previous years, he was playing with more authority and better chemistry with his teammates, especially fellow big man Evan Mobley.
Allen has made a name for himself as one of the best and smartest defenders in the league, and he will have to show what he is capable of in this series against Indiana.
Turner will not go easy on him, and there will be a lot of battling in the paint, fighting over the ball, and physical moments that could leave both players battered and bruised.
Turner has become a focal point of the Pacers’ plans on both offense and defense, an intimidating presence capable of swatting shots, grabbing boards, and creating opportunities for himself and others.
This will be a big moment for him, too, and he will surely try to step up to the challenge.
The Cavaliers have been able to rely on Allen all season long, and they have confidence in what he can bring to the game.
He might have to adjust and evolve his style a bit, but Cavs fans have confidence that he can.
NEXT: Analyst Names 1 Important Player For Cavs In Eastern Conference Semifinals
