There’s been much speculation as to the future of Cleveland Cavaliers forward Kevin Love, who recently opted out of his contract to become a free agent on July 1. Love is rumored to have offers from the Celtics, Lakers, and Rockets this summer, but Sam Amico of Fox Sports reports that Love has made his allegiance known:
Kevin Love has indicated to Cavs recently he plans to return. Cavs also hope to execute Brendan Haywood contract trade quickly after July 1.
— Sam Amico (@AmicoBasketball) June 28, 2015
The Cavs can offer Love up to a six-year max deal worth over $100 million when free agency begins.
Right before his team was set to play in the NBA Finals, Kevin Love insisted that he’d be back with the Cavaliers next season, despite conflicting notions all season, even from the Cavs GM. There maintained a legitimate belief that for whatever reason, Love wasn’t enjoying his experience, and he’d be gone after the season.
Love is in the most ideal position possible, and it seems he is wise enough to realize it. He can land a max deal with a team that has LeBron James on it, and nearly won an NBA title without him being able to contribute.
In the Cavs first round series against the Celtics, Love looked perfectly comfortable in his role and finding his production. The Cavaliers looked fully loaded and practically unbeatable from a chemistry standpoint. Love went for 19 & 12 in Game 1, 13 & 6 in Game 2 (LeBron and Kyrie exploded) and 23 & 9 in Game 3.
It’s proven that this can work, and after seeing it’s potential this had to be a no-brainer for Love. Now he just has to keep healthy.
