Jarrett Allen is back, and the Cleveland Cavaliers could not have timed it better.
The starting center returned from a 10-game absence with a knee injury on Friday, finishing with 18 points and 10 rebounds in just over 18 minutes of a 149-128 win over the Miami Heat.
Allen has been out since March 3, when he was hurt against Detroit. The injury was initially described as severe tendinitis, and the Cavaliers took a cautious approach with nine games left in the regular season.
Coach Kenny Atkinson said Allen’s return is significant for a team that has rarely been at full strength this season.
“It starts at the rim with him, at both ends,” Atkinson said. “He gives us a threat and protects the rim, and it makes life easier. He’s like a 7-foot goalie. He’s a big part of what we do.”
Atkinson said he is glad the team has time to get Allen integrated with James Harden, who was acquired at the trade deadline, and All-Star Donovan Mitchell before the playoffs begin.
Allen, who is averaging 15.3 points and 9.2 rebounds in 51 starts this season, was one of the team’s best players before getting hurt. He scored a career-high 40 points with 17 rebounds against Portland on February 1.
Cleveland holds the No. 4 seed in the Eastern Conference. The Cavaliers remain without rotational players Jaylon Tyson (toe) and Dean Wade (ankle).
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