Jarrett Allen earned recognition as a significant contributor for the Cleveland Cavaliers last season, particularly through his rim protection and ability to finish plays at the basket, complementing Defensive Player of the Year Evan Mobley. On August 17, <a href="https://www.buzzineintl.com/category/basketball/nba/”>NBA 2K released its rankings for the top 100 players, with Allen ranked 59th overall and holding an 84 rating. This places him in a tier alongside notable players like Desmond Bane, Norman Powell, and Rudy Gobert.
Allen’s growing reputation as a skilled rim-runner has made him a vital piece of coach Kenny Atkinson’s rotation. This NBA 2K26 ranking underscores his rising prominence and keeps conversations alive about his impact on Cleveland’s championship aspirations for the upcoming season.
Discussions Around Allen’s Role as a Starter or Bench Player
In the Cleveland Cavaliers community, there has been debate about whether Jarrett Allen should remain a starter or come off the bench. During his Terry’s Talkin’ podcast, veteran Cavaliers insider Terry Pluto revealed the team’s consideration of using Allen as a key bench contributor.
I know because I kind of did some background work on this,
Pluto shared.
I’m not saying they’re doing it, but they really believe that he would do it because that’s how Jarrett Allen is wired.
—Terry Pluto, Cavaliers Insider
Allen’s defensive presence in the paint, ability to finish above the rim, and his skill at setting effective screens make him a candidate to excel against second units. Atkinson’s ultimate focus will be strengthening the Cavaliers’ defense since their offense is already considered elite. Finding the right arrangement between starters and bench players remains a crucial task for the team.
Criticism of Allen’s Playoff Performance and Physicality
Former Cavaliers center Channing Frye has publicly criticized Allen’s physicality in crucial moments, particularly in the playoffs. Speaking on the Road Trippin’ podcast, Frye highlighted Allen’s need to play with more aggression and dominance.
It’s really been bothering me… Jarrett Allen is not a playoff big man,
Frye said.
That is my statement. He is not physically dominant. He is not physically aggressive… At some point, as the main dude – the biggest dude on your team – you’ve gotta f*** somebody up once in a while.
—Channing Frye, Former Cavaliers Player
To address these concerns, Allen must balance his natural athleticism with increased physical strength, especially as he is currently 27 years old and may face declines in speed and leaping ability in coming years. If he cannot hold his ground against opposing big men, his influence on defense could be limited. The Cavaliers tend to perform best when Allen and Mobley play together, so enhancing this defensive partnership is critical to Cleveland’s chances as a title contender.
Future Prospects and the Cavaliers’ Championship Outlook
Although Allen’s NBA 2K26 ranking reflects his rising reputation, his true impact depends on how he develops physically and adapts his role within the team. The Cavaliers are expected to work with him on improvements, which may include a more focused strength and conditioning plan. The ability of Allen and Mobley to dominate defensively could determine the franchise’s ceiling as they aim for a championship run in the near future.
With the team’s offense already a strength, the key for Cleveland will be to balance that with an improved defense anchored by their frontcourt duo. Allen’s on-court contributions, both statistically and physically, will be watched closely this season as fans and analysts debate the team’s prospects in a highly competitive Eastern Conference.