Cleveland Cavaliers big man Jarrett Allen has been listed as doubtful for Sunday’s game against the Charlotte Hornets because of his eye injury.
Allen sustained the issue during Friday’s showdown with the Miami Heat. While fighting for a rebound late in the fourth quarter, Heat center Bam Adebayo accidentally hit the Cavs big man in the right eye. It sparked plenty of concerns since the injury looked serious, with Allen covering his face as he left the floor and didn’t return in the eventual 119-115 loss for Cleveland.
Recent updates noted that Allen’s eye “got messed up” as a result of the play. Fortunately, it seems he is progressing well, with a new report noting that his eye “looked better than expected” and that there is hope he could “be back sooner rather than later.”
The Cavs said Allen is dealing with an eye contusion, per Cleveland.com.
For what it’s worth, the Wine and Gold are preparing for a potential absence of Jarrett Allen. In the aftermath of his Heat exit, head coach JB Bickerstaff noted that Evan Mobley and the rest of the team will have to step up should Allen end up being sidelined.
“Obviously, we would miss him. We would miss all the things that he brings on both sides of the court. His ability to protect the paint, anchor our defense and just his spirit. Everyone would have to step up,” Bickerstaff noted.
While there is a high chance that Allen sits out Sunday’s meeting with the Hornets, at least it doesn’t look like he’ll be sidelined for long.