The Cleveland Cavaliers punched their ticket to this year’s postseason with Sunday’s win over the Houston Rockets. However, with six games remaining and just one win separating them and the third-seeded Philadelphia 76ers, it should be expected that they’re still looking to move up the standings. Tuesday’s game against the Atlanta Hawks will be a great opportunity for them to pick up their 49 win on the year. However, the availability of star big man Jarrett Allen is considered to be in question heading into the contest, which begs the question: Is Jarrett Allen playing tonight vs. the Hawks?
*Watch NBA games LIVE with fuboTV (click for a free trial)*
Jarrett Allen injury status vs. Hawks
After having missed four-straight games due to an eye injury sustained earlier this month, Jarrett Allen finds himself back on the injury report with a right groin strain. With this ailment, he was listed as questionable on the league’s official injury report, but is now listed as “out” along with forward Dean Wade, according to Cleveland.com Cavs reporter Chris Fedor.
Considering the Cavs are already guaranteed a top-six spot in the upcoming playoffs, there’s a rather realistic chance that head coach J.B. Bickerstaff could play it safe and sit their one-time All-Star against the Hawks. When it comes to groin injuries, one can never be too careful.
However, should he sit out, the big man’s presence will undoubtedly be missed. Through 65 games played this season, Allen finds himself posting impressive per-game averages of 14.4 points, 9.9 rebounds, and 1.2 blocks on 64.5% shooting from the field.
With the 24-year-old relegated to the sidelines this year, the Cavs have gone just 5-5.
So when it comes to the question of whether or not Jarrett Allen will be playing tonight vs. the Hawks, the answer is no.