After another underwhelming playoff run, the Cleveland Cavaliers may face a franchise-defining offseason. With speculation swirling around Donovan Mitchell’s future and internal tension reported between stars, the front office may consider hitting the reset button. If that happens, center Jarrett Allen—one of the team’s most valuable two-way bigs—could find himself on the trade market.
Allen, a 26-year-old rim protector and elite lob threat, is still under contract at a reasonable $20 million per year through 2025-26. His team-friendly deal, interior defense, and locker room presence make him a hot commodity for contenders or retooling squads looking to bolster their frontcourt.
Here are the three best trade destinations for Jarrett Allen if the Cavaliers decide to blow it up:
1. Oklahoma City Thunder
Why it makes sense:
The Thunder are one of the most promising young teams in the NBA, with a core built around Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Chet Holmgren, and Jalen Williams. While Holmgren has tremendous upside as a shot-blocker and floor spacer, pairing him with a more traditional bruiser like Allen could help offset his thinner frame and allow OKC to dominate the glass.
Proposed package:
- OKC receives: Jarrett Allen
- CLE receives: 2025 first-round pick (via Houston), Jeremiah Robinson-Earl, Tre Mann
Fit:
Allen would thrive in Mark Daigneault’s system, anchoring the defense and giving Holmgren more freedom to roam. His presence would instantly raise OKC’s defensive ceiling and playoff toughness.
2. New Orleans Pelicans
Why it makes sense:
The Pelicans have a deep, talented roster, but lack a consistent defensive presence at the five. Jonas Valančiūnas has been serviceable but limited on defense and in switching schemes. Allen would bring rim protection and elite P&R defense to a team that’s ready to contend if it stays healthy.
Proposed package:
- NOP receives: Jarrett Allen
- CLE receives: Jonas Valančiūnas (expiring), 2025 first-round pick, Dyson Daniels
Fit:
Allen’s ability to anchor the defense could take pressure off Zion Williamson and Brandon Ingram. He’s also a perfect P&R partner for CJ McCollum. For Cleveland, this move gives them a young defensive guard and financial flexibility.
3. Dallas Mavericks
Why it makes sense:
The Mavericks have finally found playoff success with Luka Dončić and Kyrie Irving, but interior defense remains a glaring hole. Rookie Dereck Lively II is promising but still developing. Allen would immediately solidify the paint and elevate Dallas into a top-tier contender.
Proposed package:
- DAL receives: Jarrett Allen
- CLE receives: Josh Green, Maxi Kleber, 2027 first-round pick (top-10 protected)
Fit:
Allen’s screen-setting and vertical spacing would be lethal alongside Luka, and his defense would take pressure off the perimeter. Dallas could form a long-term tandem with Allen and Lively to dominate both ends for years.
Conclusion
Jarrett Allen may not be a superstar, but his value as a defensive anchor and low-maintenance offensive piece is enormous. If the Cavaliers decide to reset, they should have no shortage of suitors for Allen’s services. Whether it’s the young Thunder, the deep Pelicans, or the contending Mavericks, Allen’s next stop could help shift the balance of power across the NBA.
