The Cleveland Cavaliers haven’t seen Jarrett Allen on the floor for the last two games, and the team obviously missed him. The big man is a crucial part of the team’s plans and a permanent presence on the frontcourt.
The Cavaliers are attempting to bounce back after a defeat to the champion New York Knicks. They might get their shot because they are playing the Charlotte Hornets next. The Cavaliers have had their issues, but the Hornets have had more and have lost their last six matches. This is a perfect opportunity for Cleveland.
Sadly, they may be battling without Jarrett Allen. According to Danny Cunningham, Allen is listed as questionable for the Hornets game with a right knee contusion.
Additionally, Jaylon Tyson and Sam Merrill are definitely sitting this game out.
“Cavs center Jarrett Allen (right knee contusion) has been listed as questionable for tomorrow’s game against the Charlotte Hornets,” Cunningham posted.
#Cavs center Jarrett Allen (right knee contusion) has been listed as questionable for tomorrow’s game against the Charlotte Hornets.
Jaylon Tyson (right ankle sprain) and Sam Merrill (right elbow injury management) are both out.
— Danny Cunningham (@RealDCunningham) November 8, 2026
On one hand, the Cavaliers would be happy to see Allen back in action. It could go a long way toward stopping the Hornets, who will be missing quite a few players, including Kon Knueppel and Brandon Miller.
On the other hand, Cleveland may want to let Allen rest if he really isn’t 100 percent healed and ready to play again. Beating Charlotte is important, but the Cavaliers will take on the New York Knicks again after them. Giving Allen a few more days to recover might be smart and give Cleveland a better chance against the Knicks.
During his first eight games of the year, Allen has put up 13.3 points and 7.8 rebounds per game. That is slightly down from 2025-26, but the season is still young. Most of his numbers have dipped a bit, but Allen is still a pivotal piece of the puzzle for Cleveland.
The Cavaliers already have the upper hand in this game due to Charlotte’s recent track record and their injuries. Putting Allen back in the lineup would give them even more strength. But they don’t want to risk a more serious injury and will weigh their options wisely.
They need their big man for the remainder of the season.
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