The Cavs Core Four: Evaluating their Game 2 performances vs Knicks

Jarrett Allen’s Game 2

Allen’s Game 2 performance: workman-like. Allen had another great game on the glass, finishing with 10 rebounds. What stood out the most though was the fact that he finished with more offensive rebounds (6) than defensive rebounds (4). His presence in the paint was daunting for the Knicks and he completely neutralized Mitchell Robinson, who finished with a measly 2 points and 5 rebounds. Allen also finished with 9 points, going up aggressively whenever he was at the rim.

It felt like he was trying to take the rim off every time he dunked the ball. Allen did receive his fair share of criticism (mainly from Knicks fans) for attempting to block Julius Randle’s dunk attempt late in the game and with the Cavs up 20.

Allen received a flagrant 1 for that play, but it was a normal basketball play. That is what happens when two monsters meet at the rim with momentum. It’s also the playoffs. Nothing is given, it is earned, and Allen is always going to empty the tank when he’s out there.

I am sure Allen will receive his fair share of boos at Madison Square Garden, and he shouldn’t be surprised by that if so. Either way, the Fro Show will look to own the paint again for the Wine and Gold.