Cavs’ Koby Altman On Jarrett Allen Contract Extension: He Is ‘Anchor’ Of Our Core

Well, it’s official — the Cavaliers have announced the multiyear contract extension for center Jarrett Allen.

While it may have taken some by surprise, president of basketball operations Koby Altman said in a press release it was necessary. He implied both sides are thrilled.

“We couldn’t be more excited that Jarrett Allen chose to extend in Cleveland for the prime of his career,” Altman said. “Jarrett’s growth as a player, at just 26 years old, was accelerated when he earned his first All-Star selection in 2022.

“He is the anchor of our core group of players and his presence fits our vision for sustainable success. Jarrett also embodies the culture and values of our organization, and we look forward to achieving even greater things together.”

The Cavaliers didn’t announce specifics (per team policy), but Allen reportedly agreed to a three-year, $91 million extension. He had two years and $40 million left on his current deal.

One of the top centers in the NBA, Allen averaged 16.5 points, 10.5 rebounds, 2.7 assists, 0.7 steals and 1.1 blocks in 2023-24 for the Cavaliers while shooting 63.4% from the field and 74.2% from the free-throw line.  

He carries career averages of 12.7 points, 9.1 rebounds, 1.6 assists, 0.6 steals and 1.3 blocks with the Brooklyn Nets and Cavaliers.

Cleveland is 139-113 with Allen in the lineup. 

According to Evan Dammarell of ClutchPoints, the New Orleans Pelicans and Houston Rockets tried to trade for Allen. But the Cavaliers told the Pelicans and Rockets they were keeping Allen. 

“Sources tell ClutchPoints that the New Orleans Pelicans and Houston Rockets checked in on Allen’s availability,” Dammarell wrote. “But although there’s interest, conversations didn’t go far.”

The Boston Celtics beat the Cavs in the second round of the 2024 playoffs in five games. Allen missed the entire series with a rib injury. 

(Ashish Mathur contributed to this report.)

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