Jarrett Allen made a triumphant return from a 10-game absence with knee tendinitis, scoring 18 points in 18 minutes as the Cleveland Cavaliers routed the Miami Heat 149-128. The 6-foot-11 center wasted no time making an impact, converting a short hook on the game's first possession and scoring eight points in the opening four minutes.

Allen's return came at a crucial time for the Cavaliers, who have struggled with injuries throughout the season. Coach Kenny Atkinson joked about forgetting Allen was on the team, but the center's presence immediately transformed Cleveland's frontcourt. The Cavs set a franchise record for points in a regulation game, with Max Strus leading the way with eight 3-pointers and 29 points while Evan Mobley added 23 points.

Allen's return bolsters Cleveland's defense, pairing him with reigning defensive player of the year Mobley to create one of the league's most formidable front lines. The Cavaliers, holding the No. 4 seed in the Eastern Conference, have only eight games remaining in the regular season. With Allen back alongside newly acquired James Harden, Cleveland gets a final "runway" to integrate their full roster before the playoffs.