Atlanta Eyes Jarrett Allen to Take Next Step in Eastern Conference

Atlanta Hawks want to complete their project with a top-tier center. The Georgia franchise has spent weeks exploring the interior market, and one of the names they like most is Jarrett Allen, the starting center for the Cleveland Cavaliers.

According to Jake Fischer reporting in The Stein Line, the Hawks have shown interest in Allen, though Cleveland has not budged from a clear stance so far: they won't give up their center. The situation, however, could start to change due to the Cavaliers' salary cap context, as they are forced to closely monitor the second apron.

Allen enters this season in the extension he signed in 2024, a three-year deal worth $90.7 million. Last season he played 56 games and averaged 15.4 points, 8.5 rebounds and 1.8 assists in 27.1 minutes, shooting 63.8% from the field. In other words, exactly the type of reliable, efficient and proven big man that Atlanta is looking for to raise their ceiling.

The Hawks had already looked at other options to strengthen the paint. Names like Yves Missi, Goga Bitadze, Daniel Gafford and Isaiah Hartenstein appeared in various conversations, but none quite fit. Allen, by age, performance and playoff experience, would be a more serious step.

The possible key to the deal could be Jonathan Kuminga. Cleveland has been linked in recent weeks to sign-and-trade scenarios involving the wing, who is currently in the orbit of several teams. Various reports have placed the Cavaliers among the franchises interested in exploring that route, while Atlanta remains open to getting value if Kuminga ultimately leaves.

For Atlanta, Allen would be the ideal closer for a very physical starting five. Alongside Nickeil Alexander-Walker, Luguentz Dort, Dyson Daniels and Jalen Johnson, Cleveland's center would provide rebounding, rim protection, continuity in the pick-and-roll and real presence in the paint.

The move is not simple. Allen has a significant contract, Cleveland doesn't want to lose him without strong compensation, and any formula would need to fit within a summer marked by salary cap restrictions. But the idea is on the table: the Hawks want a proven, ready-to-compete big man right now.

After a season on the rise, Atlanta is looking for more than just consolidation. They want to harden their identity and get fully into the Eastern Conference race.