In a significant move for the Cleveland Cavaliers, center Jarrett Allen has officially agreed to a three-year, $91 million maximum contract extension, ensuring his presence with the team through the 2028-29 season. This extension guarantees Allen $131 million over the next five years, solidifying his role as a cornerstone of the Cavaliers’ future .
A Pillar of the Cavaliers’ Core
At just 26 years old, Allen has emerged as a pivotal figure in Cleveland’s lineup. His consistent performance and leadership have earned him the nickname “the anchor of our core group” from Cavaliers president of basketball operations, Koby Altman . Altman emphasized that Allen’s growth, highlighted by his first All-Star selection in 2022, aligns with the team’s vision for sustainable success and embodies the organization’s culture and values .
Stellar Performance and Impact
During the 2023-24 season, Allen delivered career-best averages of 16.5 points, 10.5 rebounds, and 2.7 assists per game over 77 appearances. His dominance was particularly evident in the postseason, where he averaged 17 points and 13.8 rebounds in the first four games against the Orlando Magic before a rib injury sidelined him for the remainder of the playoffs . Notably, Allen achieved 42 double-doubles during the season, marking the most by a Cavaliers player since LeBron James in 2017-18
Strengthening the Cavaliers’ Future
This extension is part of a broader strategy by the Cavaliers to secure their key players. Earlier in the offseason, All-Star guard Donovan Mitchell signed a three-year, $150.3 million extension, and forward Evan Mobley agreed to a five-year, $224 million deal. Together, these moves reinforce the Cavaliers’ commitment to building a competitive and cohesive team for the long term .
Looking Ahead
With Allen’s extension, the Cavaliers have solidified their “Core Four” of Mitchell, Mobley, Darius Garland, and Allen, positioning themselves as a formidable force in the Eastern Conference. As the team continues to develop under new head coach Kenny Atkinson, the foundation is set for sustained success and potential championship contention in the coming seasons.
