At his last grand final parade back in 2018, Allen believed he was about to play in the decider for West Coast.
But heroic defender Jeremy McGovern courageously took his place in the grand final with broken ribs, helping the Eagles to a famous five-point win.
"During the parade, I actually thought I was probably going to play," Allen recalls.
"(McGovern) wasn't looking too good, the big fella, and then he came out and did what he did, and got up."
But there is no uncertainty for Allen this time around - assured of his place in Brisbane's line-up in his first season since switching to the Lions.
The 27-year-old is hoping he will finally be a premiership player eight years after missing out in his first season in the AFL.
The advice to stay away from the silverware came from Eagles forward Mark LeCras, who missed out on West Coast's 2006 premiership but featured in the 2018 flag.
"I haven't touched the cup, haven't touched the medal," Allen said.
"(LeCras) was dropped late in the year (in 2006), and then his thing was he wouldn't touch one until he was able to hopefully win one.
"I grew up idolising Mark LeCras, he was my favourite player.
"So when he won in '18, he said, 'Don't touch it, mate. Wait until you get one of your own."
Allen was sidelined for three months with a foot injury during his first season since switching from the Eagles.
But the key forward was able to return for round 21 and hasn't been out of the side since.
"We probably, not rushed, but progressed with our rehab program to ensure that I had enough time to get back in the team and get a bit of form and confidence in my body," Allen said.
"It difficult, but just really glad that the foot's been able to hold up and been able to come back in and play a role."
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