The Cleveland Cavaliers are right at the cusp of securing the fourth seed in the East and homecourt advantage to begin the playoffs. They’ll need to dispatch the Indiana Pacers on Sunday to help seal the deal. Ahead of one of their last four contests to help clinch homecourt, one question worth asking before the game is this: is Jarrett Allen playing vs. the Pacers?
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Jarrett Allen injury status vs. Pacers
Cavs coach JB Bickerstaff said Jarrett Allen will play against the Pacers on Sunday, according to Elyria Chronicle-Telegram Cavaliers beat writer Bob Finnan.
Forward Isaac Okoro is still out.
Jarrett Allen has missed the Cavs’ last two contests as he continues to deal with a nagging groin injury, which is what threatens his status against the Pacers. The big man is currently tabbed as questionable for the contest just a handful of hours before tip-off.
Allen has taken a minor step back from last season, when he made his first All-Star team and proved himself to be a formidable force in the paint on both ends. His points and rebounds have taken a dip as well as his shooting efficiency while his frontcourt partner in Evan Mobley has taken a step forward.
Nonetheless, JA has been a steadying presence for the Cavs and is a big part of their identity as Cleveland attempts to solidify itself as one of the most promising young teams in the NBA.
The Cavs need just two wins to lock up homecourt advantage over the New York Knicks – their likely opponent – in the first round. Having Allen in the paint would be a huge help. For now, the answer to the question – is Jarrett Allen playing vs. Pacers? – is yes.