Could Jarrett Allen Be the Missing Piece for the Pacers?
With the NBA trade deadline just days away, the Indiana Pacers are reportedly eyeing a major upgrade at center - and a new name has entered the conversation: Jarrett Allen.
According to league sources, the Cleveland Cavaliers have floated the idea of moving Allen, not because of performance issues - far from it - but to ease the financial pressure of their second-apron tax situation. Allen is set to begin a three-year, $90.7 million extension next season, carrying a $30.2 million average annual salary. That’s a significant number, but for a player of his caliber, it’s a price tag that makes sense - especially for a team like Indiana that’s pushing to take the next step in the Eastern Conference.
If the Pacers are serious about upgrading at center, Allen checks just about every box.
What Jarrett Allen Brings to the Table
Let’s start with production. Through 39 games this season, Allen is averaging 14 points, 8 rebounds, 2 assists, and a steal per game while shooting a highly efficient 60.5% from the field. He’s not just putting up numbers - he’s doing it in just over 27 minutes per night, which speaks to his efficiency and impact in a limited role.
Defensively, Allen is a force. He’s long, mobile, and knows how to anchor a defense without needing constant help.
He’s earned Defensive Player of the Year votes in three of his first eight seasons - a nod to just how respected his presence is on that end of the floor. He’s also a top-tier rebounder, ranking 16th in the league in total rebound percentage, and he brings a physicality and consistency that the Pacers’ current rotation simply doesn’t have.
Indiana’s system thrives on pace and space, and while Allen isn’t a floor-stretcher - he’s just 1-for-9 from three this season - he makes up for it with vertical spacing. He’s a lob threat, a rim-runner, and a guy who can keep up in transition. That’s a big deal for a team that likes to push the tempo and get out on the break.
A Clear Upgrade in the Middle
No shade to Jay Huff or Isaiah Jackson - they’ve had their moments - but Allen would represent a clear upgrade at the five. He brings experience, playoff reps, and a skill set that fits both the current roster and Indiana’s long-term timeline. At 27, he’s entering his prime, and with Tyrese Haliburton and Pascal Siakam already in place, adding Allen could solidify a core that’s built to compete now and grow together.
And let’s not forget: Allen led the league in field goal percentage last season at 70.6%. That’s not just efficient - that’s elite. He knows his role, plays within it, and does the dirty work that championship-caliber teams need from their bigs.
The Cost - and the Opportunity
Of course, trading for Allen won’t come cheap. Big men of his caliber don’t hit the market often, and Cleveland isn’t going to give him away. But if the Cavs are serious about creating financial flexibility and the Pacers are serious about making a leap, there’s a window here.
The question isn’t whether Allen is worth pursuing - it’s whether Indiana is willing to pay the price to land him. If they are, this could be the kind of move that changes the trajectory of the franchise.
The Pacers have a chance to add a top-10 center who fits their system, their timeline, and their style of play. If Allen is truly available, Indiana should be all-in.