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Lakers Eyeing Trade for Cavaliers Center Jarrett Allen

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  Published in Sports and Competition on Saturday, February 14th 2026 at 15:11 GMT by Sporting News
      Locales: California, Ohio, UNITED STATES

Los Angeles, CA - February 14, 2026 - The Los Angeles Lakers are reportedly heavily considering a move for Cleveland Cavaliers center Jarrett Allen, signaling a potential shakeup in the team's frontcourt strategy. NBA insider Marc Stein revealed on The Bill Simmons Podcast that the Lakers are actively scouting Allen and assigning a 67% probability to a center acquisition before the season concludes. This report underscores the Lakers' acknowledged struggles in the frontcourt and their willingness to explore significant trades to bolster their championship aspirations.

Jarrett Allen, currently in the second year of a four-year, $52 million contract, is averaging 13.6 points and 6.7 rebounds for the Cavaliers this season. While those numbers might not scream superstar, his impact extends beyond the stat sheet. Allen is a formidable rim protector, a developing offensive threat, and a key component of Cleveland's defensive scheme. For a Lakers team that has often looked vulnerable inside, adding a player of Allen's caliber could be a game-changer.

Lakers' Frontcourt Woes and the Need for a Pivot

The Lakers' frontcourt has been a persistent issue this season. Despite the presence of veteran players, consistent rebounding, interior defense, and reliable scoring from the center position have been lacking. Anthony Davis, while a gifted player, has been plagued by injuries throughout his Lakers tenure, limiting his availability and forcing the team to rely on less consistent options. While Davis's versatility allows him to play both power forward and center, relying on him as the sole interior presence has proven unsustainable.

The Lakers' struggles aren't solely about individual performance; it's about fit and consistency. The team has experimented with various frontcourt combinations, but none have consistently delivered the necessary impact to compete with the league's elite. A reliable, athletic center like Allen could alleviate some of the pressure on Davis, allowing him to focus on his strengths while providing a steady presence in the paint.

What Would the Cavaliers Want in Return? The Cavaliers are understandably hesitant to part with a young, promising player like Allen. However, if the Lakers were to make a serious offer, Cleveland would undoubtedly demand a substantial package. Speculation suggests the Lakers might have to include a combination of promising young players - potentially including Max Christie or Jalen Hood-Schifino - and future draft capital to make the deal palatable for the Cavaliers. A first-round draft pick would almost certainly be a non-negotiable component.

The challenge for the Lakers lies in balancing the need to improve the current roster with preserving their future assets. Trading away too much draft capital could hinder their ability to build a sustainable contender down the line. However, with LeBron James's age and the current competitive landscape, the Lakers might feel compelled to prioritize immediate improvement, even if it means sacrificing some future flexibility.

Beyond Allen: Other Potential Center Targets

While Allen appears to be the most prominent target at the moment, the Lakers are likely exploring other options. The trade market is dynamic, and several other centers could become available as the season progresses. Players like Clint Capela or even exploring a buyout situation with a veteran presence could also be considered. However, Allen's age (25) and contract structure make him a particularly attractive option for a team looking to build for both the present and the future.

Impact on the Western Conference

A trade for Jarrett Allen would undoubtedly shake up the Western Conference landscape. The Lakers, currently battling for playoff positioning, would instantly become a more formidable opponent. Adding Allen's defensive prowess and rebounding ability could significantly improve their chances of making a deep playoff run. It would also put pressure on teams like the Denver Nuggets, Oklahoma City Thunder, and Minnesota Timberwolves to respond with their own moves to maintain their competitive edge.

The NBA trade deadline is fast approaching, and the Lakers are clearly signaling their intent to be active players in the market. Whether they ultimately land Jarrett Allen remains to be seen, but their pursuit of the Cavaliers center underscores their commitment to addressing their frontcourt deficiencies and making a serious push for another championship.