TITLE: Jarrett Allen Nears Return as Cavaliers Enter Final Stretch
SLUG: cavs-jarrett-allen-nearing-return-after-knee-tendinitis
CONTENT:
CLEVELAND — Cleveland Cavaliers center Jarrett Allen is close to rejoining the lineup after missing nine consecutive games with knee tendinitis, head coach Kenny Atkinson said Tuesday.
“He’s ramped it up in the last few days; trending, trending positive,” Atkinson told reporters. “I watched him yesterday on the court with contact. I think we’re in that last stage of getting him ready. I could anticipate in the next couple games a possible return.”
Allen has been sidelined since sustaining the injury on March 3 during the third quarter against the Detroit Pistons. The absence created uncertainty with the postseason approaching, but Atkinson’s update signals the 25-year-old is in the final phase of recovery.
Before the setback, Allen was playing some of the best basketball of his career. In the eight games immediately after the All-Star break, he averaged 18.9 points and 9.5 rebounds while shooting 63 percent from the field. His interior defense and rim protection are central to Cleveland’s identity.
A return would bolster a roster that is steadily getting healthier. Guard Max Strus has already rejoined the rotation, and rookie Jaylon Tyson (toe) is also making progress.
The Cavaliers defeated the Orlando Magic on Tuesday without Allen, marking their ninth win in the last 14 games. Cleveland continues its push toward the playoffs with the hope that its starting center will be available within the next few outings.
Source: Hoops Wire
