Cavaliers’ Jarrett Allen Questionable After Suffering Finger Fracture in Loss to Celtics

The Cleveland Cavaliers may be without another key starter heading into Friday’s NBA Cup game against the Toronto Raptors after center Jarrett Allen suffered a broken ring finger during Wednesday’s 125-105 defeat to the Boston Celtics. The loss snapped the Cavaliers’ three-game winning streak and delivered a new setback to a team already managing multiple injuries.

Team officials confirmed Thursday that Allen underwent imaging tests following the game, which revealed a non-displaced fracture — meaning the bone remains properly aligned despite the break. While the injury does not require immediate surgery, the Cavaliers said Allen’s availability will depend on how he responds to treatment and evaluation over the next 24 hours.

Allen’s injury came midway through the second half when he appeared to jam his left hand while battling for a rebound. He continued to play briefly before being pulled as the Celtics pulled away late in the contest.

Through Cleveland’s first five games, Allen has averaged 14 points and seven rebounds while anchoring the team’s interior defense. His potential absence would leave a significant gap in both scoring efficiency and rim protection.

1. A Growing List of Injuries for the Cavaliers

Allen’s status adds to a growing list of injury concerns for the Cavaliers, who have yet to field a fully healthy starting lineup this season. The team is already without point guard Darius Garland, sidelined by a lingering toe issue, and forward Max Strus, who continues to recover from offseason foot surgery. Garland, an All-Star in 2022, has missed multiple games and is expected to remain day-to-day. His absence has forced Cleveland to rely more heavily on Donovan Mitchell for ball-handling duties, while backup guard Caris LeVert has seen increased minutes in the rotation. Strus, acquired in a sign-and-trade deal this summer, was expected to provide perimeter shooting and spacing but has been limited since the start of training camp. The team remains cautious about rushing him back too soon, given his importance to Cleveland’s offensive balance. With three starters potentially out, head coach J.B. Bickerstaff may need to experiment with his rotation against a Toronto team known for its size and rebounding. Cleveland’s frontcourt depth — including Evan Mobley and Georges Niang — will likely be tested if Allen cannot play.

2. Allen’s Impact and the Team’s Path Forward

Jarrett Allen’s role has been central to Cleveland’s identity since his arrival in 2021. Known for his defensive presence, rebounding, and efficiency around the rim, Allen has provided a steadying force in the paint alongside Mobley. His injury now presents both a short-term challenge and a test of the Cavaliers’ depth. Without Allen, Cleveland may turn to Mobley at center, with Niang or Dean Wade sliding into the starting frontcourt. While that lineup offers more offensive flexibility, it also risks giving up interior defense and rim protection — areas where Allen’s contributions have been vital. The Cavaliers enter Friday’s NBA Cup matchup with a 3-2 record and will look to maintain momentum despite their injuries. Toronto, meanwhile, brings an athletic frontcourt led by Pascal Siakam and Scottie Barnes, posing a tough matchup if Cleveland is shorthanded. Bickerstaff emphasized earlier this week that the team’s focus remains on building consistency and chemistry despite early obstacles. “We’ve got to keep finding ways to compete no matter who’s out there,” he said. “This is an opportunity for our younger guys to step up and contribute.”

3. Looking Ahead in the NBA Cup Stretch

Friday’s matchup carries added weight as part of the NBA’s inaugural in-season tournament, giving Cleveland extra motivation to perform well even with injuries piling up. The team hopes Allen’s finger fracture will not sideline him for an extended period, as his recovery timeline depends on how quickly swelling and pain subside. For now, Cleveland’s medical staff will prioritize rest and targeted therapy, avoiding any risk of aggravating the injury. The team’s cautious approach mirrors how they’ve handled Garland and Strus, emphasizing long-term health over short-term gains. If Allen is unavailable, expect Mobley and Niang to share more frontcourt responsibilities, while Mitchell and LeVert carry the offensive load. The Cavaliers’ ability to adapt — particularly on defense — could determine whether they stay competitive in both the tournament and the broader early-season race. Despite the setback, Cleveland remains optimistic that Allen’s injury is minor compared to what could have been. The team’s resilience will be tested, but their depth and defensive foundation give them a chance to stay afloat until the roster returns to full strength.