Cavs center Jarrett Allen has been upgraded to questionable for Friday’s game against Miami, according to the official NBA injury report.
Allen has been sidelined since March 3 with right knee tendinitis, missing the past 10 games.
The 27-year-old was playing some of his best basketball before the injury, averaging 21.0 points, 10.6 rebounds, and 2.0 assists over a 14-game stretch while shooting 72.4 percent from the field.
The Cavs have gone 12-10 without Allen this season, compared to 33-18 when he’s available. His absence has been felt on the interior, particularly in rebounding and rim protection.
“He’s ramped it up in the last few days; trending positive,” Cavs coach Kenny Atkinson said earlier this week. “I watched him yesterday on the court [with] contact. I think we’re in that last stage of getting him ready. I could anticipate in the next couple games [a possible return]. That window.”
Allen, a former All-Star, is earning $20 million this season. His three-year, $90 million extension begins in 2026-27.
Even if Allen returns Friday, the Cavs are expected to remain shorthanded. Craig Porter Jr. (left groin strain), Jaylon Tyson (toe), and Dean Wade (ankle) are all listed as out.
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