The Cleveland Cavaliers have had to live without their star center for the last two games, and they may have to keep holding on without him on Sunday. The latest Jarrett Allen injury update reveals that he is questionable for Sunday’s action with a groin strain. Bettors must seriously consider whether Jarrett Allen is playing tonight before placing their wagers.
The Cavaliers and Pacers will tip off at 8 p.m. ET, making this one of the card’s latest games. Those looking for an edge should heed this advice or check out OddsShopper’s tools for sharp NBA bets. A full subscription to OddsShopper Premium will help you find +ROI bets and become a profitable sports bettor!
Jarrett Allen Injury Update – NBA Betting Impact
Although the Cleveland Cavaliers are looking like playoff contenders, they don’t have much to play for with only four games left on their schedule. The Cavaliers own a 2.5-game advantage over the fifth-ranked New York Knicks, but they trail the third-ranked Philadelphia 76ers by 3.5 games. With their only games remaining against eliminated teams, the Cavaliers can afford to be careful with their star center as the playoffs approach.
Jarrett Allen has missed Cleveland’s last two games with a groin injury. He hadn’t missed time with the injury earlier in the year, so it’s likely that this is a new issue. Still, Cleveland will likely try to get Allen back in the mix before the playoffs to prevent him from having to shake off the rust in a meaningful game.
However, Allen is trending in the right direction. He logged a limited practice session on Thursday, which led him to pick up a doubtful tag for Friday’s game. He is now questionable for Sunday. It wouldn’t be a surprise for Allen to sit another contest out, especially with Cleveland’s seeding unlikely to change, but he could make his return on Sunday night.
When Allen sits, Evan Mobley slides over to the five, leaving Cleveland with Lamar Stevens, a big wing, at power forward — compromising their defense. Since Isaac Okoro will sit on Sunday, Caris LeVert will likely remain in the starting lineup. Missing Okoro will also hurt Cleveland’s defense. The Cavaliers are 5.1 points more efficient with Allen on the floor than without him.
Cavaliers-Pacers NBA Betting Tips & Advice
The Cavaliers have struggled to contain their opponents without Allen and Okoro. The New York Knicks ran wild for 130 points behind a 48-point, nine-assist showing from Jalen Brunson. The Atlanta Hawks racked up 120 points behind 29 from Dejounte Murray in Allen’s absence on Tuesday.
The total for Sunday’s contest hasn’t opened yet, but the Cavaliers are a 12-point favorite. Although the Pacers are likely to keep some of their big-name players on the sidelines with their playoff hopes dashed, their reserves should be able to do some damage against the Cavaliers if Allen sits.
Indiana’s team total should have value come Sunday. Keep a close eye out for when the NBA totals open this evening and plan to target the Pacers to surpass theirs. Despite their solid defense, the Cavaliers are 39-39 to the over. The Pacers have averaged 116.7 points per game against them this year and could easily rack up a bunch again.
Head to DraftKings Sportsbook to back the Pacers to go over their team total once the markets open. Limit your action so that you aren’t overexposed if Allen gets ruled in. Those new to DraftKings can earn $150 in bonus bets with a winning $5 moneyline wager. Bettors in Ohio can score the same deal but via this link instead!
