TITLE: Harden Impressed by Jarrett Allen’s Early Chemistry as Cavaliers Keep Winning
SLUG: harden-impressed-by-jarrett-allen-chemistry-cavaliers
CONTENT:
The partnership between newly acquired guard James Harden and center Jarrett Allen is already paying dividends for the Cleveland Cavaliers.
Speaking after Thursday night’s blowout victory over the Brooklyn Nets, Harden said Allen has surpassed his initial expectations. “He’s better than I thought he was,” Harden stated. “He can catch the ball and finish around the rim with both hands. He has so much touch around the rim. That’s probably one of the most underrated parts of his game.”
Cleveland traded for Harden to stabilize its offense, but the veteran guard stressed that creating opportunities for teammates is just as important. “I’m just trying to get him the ball in spots where he can be successful,” Harden said. “It’s only been four games, but it’s easy for me to figure it out.”
The Cavaliers entered Friday’s game in Charlotte riding a six-game winning streak and victories in 11 of their last 12 contests. Allen’s productivity has been central to that surge, and Harden’s arrival has accelerated the big man’s impact. Lobs are smoother, pocket passes quicker, and Allen appears increasingly confident that the ball will come his way.
Head coach Kenny Atkinson has noticed the shift in team energy. “Almost like a renewed energy, a belief,” Atkinson said. “They know we’ve got something good going on. We brought in guys that are going to help us. I’m not going to sit here after four games and say we’re a juggernaut. We still have a lot to prove. But the early returns with our spirit and confidence are really good.”
Harden and Allen have played only a handful of games together, yet their two-man actions already look polished. For Cleveland, that rapid connection is precisely what the blockbuster trade was designed to deliver.
Source: Hoops Wire
