Cavs: Evaluating the fit of Lauri Markkanen with Jarrett Allen

Cavs: Allen’s defensive skills can unlock Markkanen’s potential

While Markkanen needs to improve and build upon his skill set, a young team like Cleveland might just be the place for him to do that. Playing with another young big in Allen can help Markkanen enhance his game.

Allen has the capabilities to become one of the league’s top defenders if he continues to develop the way he has in recent years. On the other hand, Markkanen’s defensive skills have been lacking in some capacity. However, with Lauri’s malleability as a big capable of playing roles from the 3 spot, to some degree, to the 5, it is possible to slide him at various positions on the court. If the Cavs could work with Markkanen on this aspect of his game, it could allow him to switch up on defenders quickly.

This fluidity could create some trouble for opponents facing the Cavs, as Lauri’s ability to change assignments would not only open up a new skill set for him, it would also give Allen the opportunity to focus his eye to the rim and guard it from any inside threats, or opponents cutting through open lanes.

A dynamic, fluid frontcourt of Allen and Markkanen would unlock a new wave of potential within this Cavs squad. It is important for fans to keep in mind though, with the Cavs having so many options to play at the frontcourt position, we might see Lauri and Jarrett play a bit less than one might anticipate game-to-game. But I firmly believe we will see some lineups featuring the two players, and both and Mobley will still get a bunch of PT individually.

Cleveland will certainly not be wanting for bigs this upcoming season. What matters now is how the Cavs utilize these players.

If they do choose to run Markkanen and Allen together regularly, the team needs to surround the two big men with players that will optimize their skill sets, and in turn optimize the success of the team.