The Cleveland Cavaliers are facing Game 6 of their NBA playoff series against the Orlando Magic without their key player, center Jarrett Allen, who is sidelined for the second consecutive game due to a rib injury. Allen, arguably the Cavs’ standout performer in the series, also missed the previous game, which Cleveland narrowly won 104-103 at home on Tuesday. His injury occurred when he received an elbow to the ribs during the second half of Game 4, a 23-point loss.
Despite Allen’s absence, Cleveland leads the series 3-2 and has the opportunity to clinch the Eastern Conference series with a victory on Friday night against the Magic. The Magic dominated Games 3 and 4 at home, winning by a combined 61 points.
If the series extends to a Game 7, it will take place on Sunday in Cleveland. Allen traveled with the team to Orlando, but his availability remained uncertain up to 90 minutes before the game.
Cavs coach J.B. Bickerstaff emphasized Allen’s safety as the primary concern regarding his participation, particularly considering the nature of his injury, which affects his mobility and ability to maneuver on the court.
Allen has been the most reliable performer for Cleveland throughout the series, averaging 17 points and 13.8 rebounds in four games.
In Game 5, with Allen sidelined, the Cavs adjusted their lineup, moving forward Evan Mobley to the center position, starting Isaac Okoro, and giving more minutes to reserves Tristan Thompson and Marcus Morris Sr. Morris notably provided a significant boost off the bench, contributing 12 points in Game 5.
