Cavs’ Jarrett Allen Named ‘Dream Trade Target’ For Bulls, Lakers, Grizzlies, Pelicans

Cleveland Cavaliers big man Jarrett Allen has been named a “dream trade target” by Greg Swartz of Bleacher Report for the Chicago Bulls, Los Angeles Lakers, Memphis Grizzlies and New Orleans Pelicans. 

Allen appeared in all 82 games for the Cavaliers this season. He averaged 13.5 points, 9.7 rebounds, 1.9 assists, 0.9 steals and 0.9 blocks while shooting 70.6% from the field and 71.8% from the free-throw line. 

A one-time All-Star, Allen will make $20 million next season. 

“Allen is a terrific defender who’s the most likely of the Cavaliers’ Core Four to be traded,” Swartz wrote. “It’s no secret which position the Lakers will be targeting this offseason. Finding a starting center is a must, preferably one who can finish off lobs from Luka Doncic and LeBron James while providing some rim protection. Allen can fill both these needs while mixing in some passing chops.

“If the Pelicans want to make a playoff push and don’t think second-year center Yves Missi is ready, Allen is a high-level starter who’d be an immediate upgrade. … Adding Allen would give the Grizzlies two elite rim protectors (Allen, Jaren Jackson Jr.) anchoring their defense.”

Allen, 27, has played for the Brooklyn Nets and Cavaliers. He has career averages of 12.8 points, 9.2 rebounds, 1.7 assists, 0.7 steals and 1.2 blocks. 

Cleveland was the No. 1 seed in the East this year. However, the Indiana Pacers beat the Cavaliers in the conference semifinals in five games. 

The Bulls and Pelicans missed the playoffs this year, while the Lakers and Grizzlies lost in the first round.