“Not Even East Contenders.. L for Love”: Cavs Legend Kevin Love Confirms Huge Decision That Baffles NBA World
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USA Today via Reuters
Jan 31, 2023; Cleveland, Ohio, USA; Cleveland Cavaliers forward Kevin Love (0) celebrates in the first quarter against the Miami Heat at Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse. Mandatory Credit: David Richard-USA TODAY Sports
After one of the wildest trade deadlines, the fans might have thought the excitement would die. But they weren’t prepared for the drama that was brewing behind the scenes. Several of the most popular superstars came in talks for a buyout with their franchises. Notably, Russell Westbrook is one who is revolving around the headlines in his search for a new home. Another name that popped up was Cleveland Cavaliers legend, Kevin Love. After falling out of the roster rotation in January, the two parties had reportedly been in talks to finalize a buyout. As is the majority of times, Adrian Wojnarowski broke the final news.
Before his injury that ultimately put him out of the rotation, the 2016 NBA champion was arguably an impact-maker off the bench. Not only did he help stretch the floor as a 35% shooter, but he is an eternal threat on the glass. His 6.8 rebounds in just 20 minutes helped the Cavaliers control the second-chance opportunities. The Cavs allow merely 11.9 points off second chances this season according to NBA stats.
USA Today via Reuters
Nov 4, 2022; Detroit, Michigan, USA; Cleveland Cavaliers guard Darius Garland (10), forward Evan Mobley (4), guard Donovan Mitchell (45) and forward Dean Wade (32) celebrate a made 3-pointer by Cleveland Cavaliers forward Kevin Love (not pictured) against the Detroit Pistons in the second quarter at Little Caesars Arena. Mandatory Credit: Allison Farrand-USA TODAY Sports
The 2011 Most Improved Player has stuck with Cleveland through all their phases. While there were times of frustration and disconnect, Kevin Love fought out of it. Sadly, his story with the franchise came to an end after the 34-year-old secured a buyout. Even before officially going on the market, several teams had lined up for Love. The ones who won the race are reportedly the Miami Heat.
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Kevin Love is heading to Miami
The Heat have been tied to Love ever since the news of a potential buyout emerged. There were reports about the Cavaliers being reluctant to give up their veteran to a competitor and make them stronger. They might have given up that chase as Woj communicated the news sent in by Kevin Love’s agent. The former NBA champion is indeed planning on signing with the 2020 NBA finalists as his buyout was finalized with the Cleveland Cavaliers.
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Love also spoke to the Philadelphia 76ers before making his decision. Miami arguably needs all that the 34-year-old brings to the table. However, the NBA fans felt Kevin Love is making the wrong decision by choosing Vice City to be his new home.
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They not even east contenders. L for Love
— jLove (@johnlhew) February 19, 2023
How much does this really help the heat? He doesn’t play defense well but can shoot
— . (@FlightKy) February 19, 2023
The rare buyout where a vet goes to a team worse than the team he is leaving
— Justin Wills (@itsjwills) February 19, 2023
Good for him. Hes gonna get playing time there but theres not much chance of a championship though.
— Bon Schnugles (@sandfleas) February 19, 2023
Heat fans… as much as we love him, his on court impact was generally minimal outside of locker room leadership which was stupendous.
— ParkerSCenter | CW: Bleach (@ParkerSCenter) February 19, 2023
Usually players in the buy out market go to contenders… tbis is wierd
— Unbiased Knick Fan (@PapiShampoo_001) February 19, 2023
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But when matching what the Heat needs to what Love is capable of bringing, the fit arguably makes sense. Miami is revered for its drive and kick system. That strategy is what made them one of the toughest teams in the East last season. However, since the fallout of Duncan Robinson, they have failed to make it effective. The Heat are one of the worst three-point shooting teams in the league converting just 33.4% of their takes.
Add in Kevin Love and his floor spacing can bring their offensive system back to life. In addition, the 34-year-old also has the playoff experience to make a significant impact on his teammates. One of his more overlooked qualities is his long-range passing. The former Cavaliers forward is capable of making the tough passes and also adds a big body presence in the interior. His impact may not be a game-changer, but if used right, the Heat can surely elevate their season.
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Do you think Kevin Love made the right move choosing the Miami Heat? Let us know your views in the comments below.
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