TITLE: Cavaliers overwhelm Trail Blazers as Jarrett Allen erupts for career-high 40 points
SLUG: cavaliers-overwhelm-trail-blazers-jarrett-allen-erupts-40
CONTENT:
Jarrett Allen posted a career-best 40 points and 17 rebounds to power the Cleveland Cavaliers past the Portland Trail Blazers, 130-111, on Sunday night at Moda Center.
The center imposed his will in the paint, hitting 17 of 23 shots, pulling down six offensive boards and blocking four attempts. “It was pure relentlessness. His energy was just off the charts,” head coach Kenny Atkinson said.
Allen credited his teammates afterward, telling FanDuel Sports Network Cleveland, “I can’t do it without my teammates. I’m not a guy who creates for myself.” Guard Craig Porter Jr. set up much of the offense, handing out a game-high 12 assists.
Supporting cast steps up
Sam Merrill knocked down 6 of 8 three-pointers on his way to 22 points, while rookie Jaylon Tyson added 18 with his trademark aggressiveness. Dean Wade contributed strong defense, and Donovan Mitchell — named an All-Star reserve earlier in the day — finished with 14 points in a reduced role.
Roster moves in the background
Cleveland played without DeAndre Hunter, who was dealt to the Sacramento Kings in a move that brought veteran guard Dennis Schroder and wing Keon Ellis to the roster. Schroder, joining his 11th team in 13 seasons, previously worked with Atkinson in Atlanta and recently led Germany to the 2023 World Cup title and the 2025 EuroBasket crown.
Standings and what’s next
The Cavaliers (30-21) are tied with the Toronto Raptors for fourth place in the Eastern Conference, two games behind Boston and New York, who share second. Cleveland gets two days off before facing the Los Angeles Clippers on Wednesday at 10:30 p.m. EST.
Source: Hoops Wire