The Cleveland Cavaliers will face a steep challenge in the Eastern Conference semifinals.
The Miami Heat didn’t pose much of a threat without Jimmy Butler, and they didn’t find much trouble getting past them in just four games.
Now, the Indiana Pacers are a whole different story.
They have two mobile big men who can step out to the perimeter, and that’s going to be a major concern for the Cavaliers’ more traditional frontcourt.
With that in mind, Jarrett Allen claimed to be quite excited about the matchup between Evan Mobley and Pascal Siakam, as he wants to watch the Defensive Player of the Year go to work against their leading scorer.
“It’s super exciting,” Allen said about the Evan Mobley-Pascal Siakam matchup. “He’s their leading scorer. Obviously, Siakam is a great offensive player in the post and on the perimeter, but we know Evan is an excellent defender in the post and the perimeter. To see them battle this series, I’m excited. Hopefully, he doesn’t need me a lot.”
Jarrett Allen:
“[2:17] The first round was excellent. Cleveland came out with a lot of energy. They know it’s something they love and they have our backs…. [the arena Cavalanche] I didn’t know what to expect but I thought it was awesome. It adds something different to an arena.… pic.twitter.com/jXsfu7Yxj4
— Dylan🔮🪼 (@dillybar2145__) May 2, 2025
Of course, it makes perfect sense to try to shut down the opposition’s best scorer with your best defender, especially if they play the same position.
Nevertheless, that might not be in the Cavaliers’ best interests.
That would leave Myles Turner paired with Jarrett Allen, and while Allen is a great defender, Turner thrives at the top of the key with his three-point shooting, and Allen isn’t nearly as effective on the perimeter.
Coach Kenny Atkinson might be forced to roll with De’Andre Hunter and small-ball lineups early and often in this series.
He’s the same height as Siakam, and he’s also an outstanding defender who can hold his ground against almost anybody.
That way, Mobley could stay with Turner on the perimeter or deal with either of their bigs as the de facto five when they drive to the rim.
NEXT: Analyst Makes Bold Prediction About Cavs-Pacers Series
