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Cleveland Cavaliers center Jarrett Allen left Friday’s game against the Milwaukee Bucks with a right hip injury, the team announced. Here’s what you need to know:
- Allen took a hard fall after attempting to block a Giannis Antetokounmpo shot. Allen came down on top of Antetokounmpo with his body somewhat perpendicular to the floor.
- Entering Friday’s game, Allen was averaging 14.3 points, 11.3 points and 1.3 assists per game on 59.5 percent shooting from the floor.
- Allen was an All-Star during the 2021-22 season.
On Allen’s injury
While Allen’s injury occurred in the first quarter, he tried to push through it. Allen started both the second quarter and then the second half, but he just didn’t look quite the same. His presence in the paint on both ends of the floor was not at the same level as it normally is. He wasn’t as active, as he seemed to hobble up and down the court and tried to be effective. Allen did not play at all during the fourth quarter of the game. He finished with just one point, three rebounds, one assist, one steal and one block. — Russo
What it could mean for the Cavs
Allen is the anchor of their defense. He blocks shots, protects the rim and help protects the paint. His presence on the defensive end allows Evan Mobley to be versatile and help protect the paint. Without Allen out there on the floor, it changes the makeup of their overall defensive presence.
Then, on the offensive end, Allen is effective and efficient. He is a really solid passer, catches lobs for dunks and works well in the paint. He grabs both offensive and defensive rebounds. If Allen has to miss any time due to the injury, the Cavs will miss his length, his presence in the paint and his ability to anchor their defense. — Russo
Required reading
(Photo: Ken Blaze / USA Today)
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