Cavs Rumors: Jarrett Allen's Absence from Injury 'Caused Frustration' with Teammates

Cleveland Cavaliers center Jarrett Allen’s absence from the team’s final eight playoff games reportedly “caused frustration” with teammates.

Shams Charania, Joe Vardon and Jason Lloyd of The Athletic reported some teammates and coaches felt Allen “could have done more to try and play” with his rib injury. In particular, there was confusion over the big man’s refusal to have an injection to numb the pain.

Allen suffered bruised ribs during the Cavs’ first-round series against the Orlando Magic. He sat out the final three games of that series and missed the entire second round against the Boston Celtics.

Chris Fedor of Cleveland.com reported Allen was dealing with “excruciating pain,” but there were still “grumbles” over his seeming lack of urgency to get back on the floor.

The Cavs also played their final two playoff games without star Donovan Mitchell, who suffered a calf strain against the Celtics.

Before the injury, Allen was playing arguably his best basketball of the season. He averaged 17.0 points and 13.8 rebounds over the first four games against Orlando, providing an imposing presence in the middle of the floor.

Evan Mobley slid over to the center spot for the rest of the playoffs to inconsistent results. Allen and Mobley have been an awkward fit next to one another for their entire time as teammates, and Allen’s absence might have provided a window into what the future would look like if Mobley took over at center long term.

The Cavs could explore Allen’s trade market over the summer, especially now that his $20 million annual salary looks well below market value.