Although Donovan Mitchell dropped 48 points in the Cavs’ Game 2 loss, everyone took a look in the mirror, including center Jarrett Allen. When asked about Mitchell’s performance, the center gave an interesting note about his individual performance.
“It means I need to play harder as well,” Allen said via Evan Dammarell of ClutchPoints on X (formerly Twitter).
If there’s one thing Cleveland has been about this season, it’s been accountability. However, they are missing a crucial piece to the team. For instance, Cavs guard Darius Garland has a big toe injury that’s kept him sidelined.
He may not have the flashy games that Mitchell has, but his impact cannot be denied.
As a result, it’s forced everyone else on the team to step up, including Allen. Even though he posted 22 points and 12 rebounds, the expectation remains the same.
Everyone has to step up, regardless of what happens or doesn’t happen on a given night.
The Cavs are down 2-0 to the Indiana Pacers and have to travel to Gainbridge Fieldhouse for the next two games. A sense of desperation might strike the team, for them to get back on the right track.
Jarrett Allen wants Cavs to be better for Donovan Mitchell
Again, the former Texas center had himself a quality game. However, his message was for all of his teammates, across the board. Being down 2-0 after being the Eastern Conference’s best team isn’t a good look.
Either way, Allen has been a key contributor in his own way. The rebounding, shot blocking and physicality have been essential for the Cavs throughout the series and the regular season.
Still, the final quarter seemed to be the bug that’s hitting the team. It happened in Game 1, and it happened again in Game 2.
Sometimes though, desperate times call for desperate measures. That might be Cleveland’s mantra heading into Game 3 on Friday.
Mitchell could continue to put on a clinic for his team. The scoring and playmaking are not going anywhere. However, the Cavs might need a jolt from other players if they wish to secure a win.
As one of the leaders on the team, Allen has put everyone on notice. If he says he needs to be better, than everyone else will fall in line.
Supporting Mitchell’s breakout games will be essential to secure wins. The scrappy Pacers team will use any advantage they have to find a way to win.
Snuffing that out would be necessary for the Cavs, and it starts with everyone stepping up their game.
