TITLE: Cavaliers Weigh Jarrett Allen Deal, Focus on Moving Lonzo Ball; Garland-Harden Talks Persist
SLUG: cavs-jarrett-allen-lonzo-ball-garland-harden-rumors
CONTENT:
The Cleveland Cavaliers are exploring multiple trade options in the run-up to this week’s deadline, including the possibility of sending veteran center Jarrett Allen elsewhere, according to league sources cited by The Athletic’s Sam Amick.
Allen’s Contract Could Ease Tax Pressure
Allen, 26, is set to begin a three-year, $90.7 million extension in 2026-27. Moving that deal is viewed internally as a way to create significant long-term flexibility and help the club slip below the NBA’s second tax apron. Even after Sunday’s trade that shipped DeAndre Hunter to Sacramento, Cleveland remains roughly $14 million above that threshold for the current season.
Lonzo Ball Viewed as Primary Salary Dump
Despite the conversations surrounding Allen, multiple team sources maintain that Lonzo Ball is Cleveland’s top candidate to be moved before the deadline. Marc Stein and Jake Fischer of The Stein Line report that the Cavaliers have held preliminary talks with the Charlotte Hornets, a deal that would reunite Lonzo with younger brother LaMelo Ball.
The Brooklyn Nets and Utah Jazz have also been mentioned as potential landing spots willing to absorb Ball’s $10 million expiring contract if draft compensation—likely second-round picks—comes attached. Off-loading Ball’s salary would edge Cleveland closer to cap relief and broaden its summer options.
Garland-Harden Scenario Lingers
The Cavaliers and Los Angeles Clippers have discussed a framework that would swap Darius Garland for James Harden. Cleveland is seeking a first-round pick or a pick swap as part of any Garland deal, while the Clippers have not met that price, leaving negotiations active but not advanced. League executives increasingly believe Garland could re-emerge as a trade candidate in the offseason if no agreement is reached this week.
With the front office still fielding calls, sources expect Cleveland to remain aggressive right up to the deadline.
Source: Hoops Wire
