Vinay Kumar
The Los Angeles Lakers are looking at a possible move for Cleveland Cavaliers center Jarrett Allen before the February 2026 trade deadline. The deal under discussion would likely include Austin Reaves and future draft picks.The Lakers are trying to strengthen a roster built around Luka Doncic and LeBron James. Cleveland, on the other hand, already has frontcourt depth with Evan Mobley and could shift focus toward adding more scoring and guard play.
Trade structure and salary match
The proposed deal sends Jarrett Allen to Los Angeles Lakers. Cleveland would receive Austin Reaves, Dalton Knecht, an unprotected 2031 first-round pick, and pick swaps in 2026, 2028, 2030, and 2032.Allen earns about $20 million. Reaves and Knecht together account for close to that figure, which keeps the deal workable under salary rules. The added picks make up for the gap in player value. Lakers general manager Rob Pelinka values Reaves, but Allen fills a need in the middle alongside Deandre Ayton.
Why the Los Angeles Lakers want Jarrett Allen
The Los Angeles Lakers need size, rebounding, and rim protection. Jarrett Allen provides all three. He gives them a reliable presence inside and takes pressure off Ayton.He also fits well with Doncic. Much of his scoring comes near the basket, which works with Doncic’s passing. With Allen in the lineup, the Lakers would have a more balanced frontcourt.
Why the Cleveland Cavaliers could agree
Luka Doncic opened up about his Los Angeles Lakers trade (Image via: Jesse Johnson-Imagn Images)
Cleveland has the option to give Evan Mobley a bigger role at center. Moving Allen would free up minutes and reshape the rotation.Reaves adds shooting and playmaking. He is shooting around 37 percent from three this season. Knecht brings scoring off the bench. The draft picks give Cleveland more options in the future while staying competitive now.
Key player stats (2025-26 season)
| Player | Games | PPG | RPG | APG | FG% | Notable |
| Jarrett Allen | 68 | 14.3 | 9.8 | 1.7 | 62.7 | Blocks leader |
| Austin Reaves | ~50 | ~15.4 | ~4.6 | ~5.6 | 51.1 | 37.4% 3PT |
| Dalton Knecht | ~30 | ~7.1 | ~2.3 | ~0.8 | 46.7 | Rookie shooter |
| Deandre Ayton | ~30 | ~12.0 | ~8.0 | ~1.5 | ~55% | Current Lakers C |
Player details and contracts
| Player | Age | Height | Weight | Experience | Salary (2025-26) |
| Jarrett Allen | 27 | 6’9” | 243 lbs | 8 years | $20M |
| Austin Reaves | 27 | 6’5” | 197 lbs | 4 years | $13.9M |
| Dalton Knecht | 24 | 6’6” | 215 lbs | Rookie | $4M |
What each team gains and risks
Jarrett Allen would give the Los Angeles Lakers better rebounding and defense inside. He is efficient around the rim and fits their current setup. The cost is losing Reaves, who handles the ball and shoots well, plus several future picks.For Cleveland, the deal improves spacing and adds guard depth. Reaves can play next to Donovan Mitchell and James Harden. Knecht adds another scoring option. The risk is losing size and depth in the frontcourt.Also read: NBA trade news: Golden State Warriors sign $60 million Boston Celtics big man instead of the much-coveted Giannis chase; assessing the pros and consThe move helps the Lakers in the short term by addressing a clear need. Cleveland gains flexibility and assets but gives up a key interior player.
