With the Cleveland Cavaliers facing challenging salary cap constraints, the possibility of a Jarrett Allen trade to Charlotte Hornets has emerged as a practical solution for both franchises. Allen’s status as a valuable but movable piece has attracted attention, especially from teams with an immediate need at the center position, such as the Hornets.

Hornets Struggling After Recent Center Departures

The Charlotte Hornets’ frontcourt has been left exposed following recent trades, notably the moves involving Mark Williams and Jusuf Nurkic. This shake-up leaves the team with limited options at center, forcing reliance on Ryan Kalkbrenner, a second-round rookie, and Moussa Diabate, whose experience is mainly as an undersized, former two-way player. The lack of established presence at the center spot has heightened Charlotte’s urgency for a dependable solution.

Structuring a Financially Sound Deal

There are clear pathways to make a trade for Allen work financially. One viable scenario involves the Cavaliers sending Allen to the Hornets in exchange for Grant Williams. This exchange would not only address positional needs but also benefit Cleveland by freeing up nearly $7 million in salary cap space, given Williams’ shorter contract term compared to Allen’s. Such a move allows the Cavaliers to adjust their roster more flexibly in the short term.

For Charlotte, the prospect requires careful consideration. While bringing in Allen may limit the future opportunities for rookie Kalkbrenner, the immediate benefits of adding an established center are difficult to ignore. The Hornets might look to enhance any package by offering second-round draft picks, and are also in a position to consider including the Dallas Mavericks’ 2027 first-round pick to make the deal more competitive, as it is considered their least critical asset in this situation.

How Allen Can Change Charlotte’s Game

Adding Jarrett Allen would address more than just depth concerns for the Hornets. His reputation for strong defense, rebounding, and reliable play in the paint provides a significant upgrade to Charlotte’s interior game. Allen’s presence would offer new dynamics on both ends of the court, stabilizing a roster that has recently seen significant turnover at key positions.

As Charlotte moves to reinforce its lineup, successfully negotiating for Jarrett Allen could serve as a defining moment for the team‘s strategy, strengthening their competitiveness in the NBA. The trade could allow the Hornets to re-establish their frontcourt identity and adapt more confidently to future league challenges, while providing the Cavaliers with cap relief and roster flexibility.