Before the 2025-26 season started, the Cleveland Cavaliers were seen as among the favorites to win the Eastern Conference. That was immense praise, but they do have one of the best rosters in the league.
Unfortunately, the Cavaliers have not met expectations so far. That led to a big trade that led to the Cavaliers getting James Harden in exchange for Darius Garland in a blockbuster point guard swap with the Los Angeles Clippers.
Allen is ready for the Cavaliers' strong second half to the season
The Cavaliers are a dangerous team in the Eastern Conference, as they are peaking at the right time. They are currently on a six-game winning streak, which is a huge bounce-back from early in the season.
They were struggling, especially with their health. Garland was rarely in the lineup due to his many injuries, so it became the foundation of the trade for Harden. So far, it has been a hit, but this could be a honeymoon period.
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Despite worries about it being a flash in the pan because of the new rotation, Jarrett Allen and the rest of the Cavaliers roster are excited for what they are capable of in the second half of the 2025-26 season.
"It’s gonna be so much fun. We have so many guys with so much talent. In the locker room, everybody is meshing well together. We have the best fans in the league. We have people to cheer us on no matter what," Allen said after the win against the Nets.
With Harden leading the offense with his playmaking, Donovan Mitchell can be more of a scoring-focused star. Allen and Evan Mobley can also be their optimal versions with their rim-running.
Harden is a game-changer for this team, especially since he is a proven veteran. He might not have a title under his belt, but he does have individual success. Garland was a great Cavaliers player, but Harden could unlock the Cavs' ceiling.
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