The Cavaliers Perspective

With Evan Mobley really solidifying his spot as an elite big this past season and the massive tax bill the Cavs are facing, Jarrett Allen becomes a little expendable, especially if they can get multiple solid role players on cheaper contracts in return. Brandon Clarke has shown to be a high level versatile defender who fits well with a big like Evan Mobley having spent his whole career playing with, and excelling next to, JJJ. Day’Ron Sharpe is one of the best offensive rebounders in the league and is a hard-nosed worker. He would bring great bench depth at the 5. In addition, the Cavs have a concerning lack of point of attack defenders on their roster. Vince Williams Jr. has shown flashes of being a disruptive defender and connective offensive piece. His exact skillset is what the Cavs desperately need.

This trade puts the Cavs about $1.8 million below the second apron, but they would still need to pick up one more player to meet the 14-player minimum.

The Pistons Perspective

In my opinion, the Pistons biggest hole in their starting lineup is at center. Jalen Duren has shown a ton of potential, but has significant holes in his game still, which isn’t surprising given he’s only 21. However, if the Pistons want to take advantage of the wide open Eastern Conference, they need to shore up their roster. Jarrett Allen is a high-level starting center, who wouldn’t have the same defensive gaps in his game that Duren has, while also bringing an offensive boost that Isaiah Stewart seriously lacks. While Duren continues to build on his game, Allen could take the pressure off of him and when Allen’s contract is coming to an end, the Pistons can transition back to Duren at the starting spot when he’ll be reaching the beginning of his prime years. In addition to being able to maintain a longer era of contention, this trade essentially gives them a full 48 minutes of starting center level play.

I also think the 2027 first could be more heavily protected- maybe top 18-20 protected.

The Grizzlies Perspective

Brandon Clarke has been a consistently great fit next to JJJ in the backcourt, but between his injuries, the Grizzlies revamping with a younger roster, and their need for a more true center backing up Edey, I think they may be looking to move on from him. Isaiah Stewart has had injury concerns of his own, but he has many of the best aspects of BC, while being a better fit in the areas of need for the Grizzlies (i.e. rebounding, defending true 5s, and being more willing and able to shoot the ball). He’d be an excellent backup center behind Edey providing a more versatile defensive fit without sacrificing the rebounding which has been a major concern for the Grizzlies since losing Steven Adams. Plus, I think Beef Stew brings more of that Grit and Grind, Z-Bo style, take no shit attitude. Not every team and fanbase can appreciate a player that’s willing to fight and brawl when things get messy like Stewart will, but that’s exactly the kind of player that will endear himself to Memphis fans and to his Grizzlies teammates. Meanwhile, Vince has shown flashes of a valuable skillset, however the Grizzlies have a few too many players in that mold which doesn’t give him much opportunity to prove what he’s capable of.

The Others

A Pistons’ first-rounder, while heavily protected, is a meaningful return for Day-Ron Sharpe, plus a flippable contract in Max Strus.

The Bulls could be interested in picking up Dean Wade’s expiring contract. His shooting and size could help alongside Matas and Giddey, plus that Giddey, Huerter, Buzelis, Wade, Zach Collins all white American line-up would be elite (read hilarious).

I do see a little issue with the Cavs helping improve one of their division rivals and a meaningful challenger in the East, so they may look for another trade option or avoid an Allen trade altogether and go all in financially on this year.

I am very open to feedback. Let me know what y'all think! Thanks!