Every man who puts on a Cleveland Cavaliers uniform subconsciously knows the standard they are all striving to reach, and they know it is improbable to reach it. Following a decade-plus of greatness in Rocket Arena (formerly Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse, Quicken Loans Arena and Gund Arena), which culminated in a legendary and long-awaited championship campaign in 2015-16, the name LeBron James is forever synonymous with Cavs basketball.
Many current and future players who don the wine and gold will try to emulate the all-time great if given the opportunity. Center Jarrett Allen, after recording a steal in Wednesday’s 124-105 home win versus the New York Knicks, attempted to mimic one of James’ signature dunks. He pulled the ball back and slammed it down but did not exhibit the same flexibility and ferocity that the four-time Finals MVP does. Allen humbly noted as much after the game.
James replied to the homage and modesty on Thursday. “You got it next time J.A.,” he posted on his Instagram Story. “Love this dude!!! Great energy and spirit.”
Cavs heavily rely on Jarrett Allen for stability
Allen will surely appreciate this shout-out, for it further highlights the impact he has had in the league during his eight-year career. Cavaliers fans already knew this, however. The 2022 All-Star is a difference-maker on offense and defense, averaging 13.9 points on an NBA-best 71.0 field goal percentage with 10.0 rebounds, 1.0 steal and just under one block through all 76 games this season. He is a workhorse, an energizer, and arguably the glue of this history-making group.
It is only natural to think of James when representing the city of Cleveland. But Allen is looking to leave his own unique imprint on 1 Center Court. He is already in an exclusive two-man club with legendary big man Wilt Chamberlain, and starting this spring, the 26-year-old aims to achieve more milestones.
There might only be one LeBron James, but Jarrett Allen is crafting a memorable Cavs legacy of his own. He and his teammates can draw closer to the No. 1 seed in the Eastern Conference, and in turn, an NBA championship, by defeating the San Antonio Spurs on Friday night.
