4 Cleveland Cavaliers who need to bounce back next season

No. 2: Jarrett Allen

A member of Cleveland’s young core, Jarrett Allen struggled to help the Cavs at all in the postseason. New York’s Mitchell Robinson pushed Allen around in the paint, grabbing more offensive rebounds than Allen grabbed in total rebounds in Game 5.

Allen’s disappearance comes from a lack of physicality and strength, but it also comes down to the Cavs’ nonexistence of a backup big. The Knicks had Isaiah Hartenstein fulfilling minutes for New York while Robinson rested. On the other hand, Cleveland’s only post options were Allen and second-year star Evan Mobley. With the Cavs’ entire rebounding responsibility thrust upon only two players, there is only so much that can be done.

Yes, Allen gave up mentally. His positioning was worse than he ever showed during the regular season. Allen typically loses to physical centers, but this was different. If Allen has the chance to catch his breath and trust his backup, then he might be capable of fighting more for each missed shot and defending each interior shot.

Facing off against the physical Knicks was a wake-up call for Allen, and next season he will need to show that he is willing to beef up and not shy away from battles in the paint.