2. Jarrett Allen
There is not much to say here. NBA fans, and Cavaliers fans at that, were calling for Allen’s head this offseason after he admitted the lights were too bright. Actually, there is something I can say here: are you not entertained?
Allen has been a revelation ever since his return from an ankle injury that cost him almost a month, dating back to early October. His presence in the paint has done wonders for the Cavs defense, and has allowed Evan Mobley to roam freely, and be an elite weapon defensively.
Allen also played an instrumental role in the Cavaliers’ biggest wins of the season against the Nuggets, and 76ers respectively. Allen gave Nikola Jokic and Joel Embiid fits, causing them to have subpar performances. The Philly game was the most impressive, as Allen played a huge part in holding Embiid to nine-of-21 shooting, and he also chipped in 26 points and 13 rebounds.
Allen seems to have a budding chemistry with Mobley on offense, as their big-to-big connection has led to tremendous results in the paint. I have never seen bigs create such easy looks for each other.
So remember those trade rumors involving the Fro? That nonsense can be put to rest now. Allen’s impact on the Wine and Gold is too good for that.