We’ve seen plenty of veteran All-Star players make it to the buyout market this summer, and Kevin Love might be the latest addition to that list. The Miami Heat traded him to the Utah Jazz this summer. His age doesn’t align with what the Jazz are trying to build. Love looks like a perfect buyout candidate, so why not let him walk to compete with another contending team?
Another All-Star Likely to Hit the Buyout Market
According to Marc Stein, Kevin Love is actively seeking a buyout and might make it to the market soon. Here is what he wrote in the latest Stein Line:
“As for the busy buyout market: Stay tuned. We’ve already seen Bradley Beal (Clippers), Damian Lillard (Trail Blazers), Deandre Ayton (Lakers), Marcus Smart (Lakers) and Jordan Clarkson (Knicks) find new teams after securing buyouts and now five-time NBA All-Star Kevin Love is actively exploring potential pathways out of Utah after he was dealt by Miami to the Jazz as part of the three-team Norman Powell trade.”
Last season, Love played only 10 minutes per game for the Miami Heat. Yet, what teams might want is his efficiency from behind the arc. Love is a career 36.9% shooter from three-point range, averaging 4.8 attempts per game for his career. Last season, however, he averaged only 2.9 three-point attempts, converting them at a 35.8% efficiency. His recently averaged 5.3 points, 4.1 rebounds, and one assist per game. Those aren’t bad numbers for a veteran presence who will be 37 years old when next season begins. With that in mind, let’s take a look at three potential options for the former All-Star forward.
Kevin Love Finally to the Warriors?
Long-term Golden State Warriors fans might remember there was a talk of a trade long ago. The Warriors wanted to trade Klay Thompson for Kevin Love, but Jerry West stopped the deal. At the time, Thompson was an All-Rookie First Team selection. He was looking like a potential future star, something that Love already was at the time. Now, more than 10 years later, Kevin might be a great addition to GSW for all the reasons that applied in 2014. He is a good three-point shooter and can grab rebounds. With the Warriors looking to improve around the edges with some veteran players, K-Love would be a good addition.
LeBron James and Kevin Love, Part 2
Love and LeBron James won the first title for the Cleveland Cavaliers together in 2016. When LeBron came back to the Cavs, the front office traded for Love to build a contender, and they delivered. Now, years later, LeBron is still trying to compete for a championship. The Lakers could use another big who can shoot for 10 to 15 minutes, so why not? Love could also be a great pick-and-roll partner for Luka Doncic. Fun fact: if Love gets a buyout and signs with the Lakers, he will be their third buyout signing this offseason.
Back to Cleveland?
Cavaliers fans have a soft spot for Love. When James left the second time, Kevin re-signed with the team and helped them remain competitive. The team they have right now is covered at all positions. But, they lack a true winner on the team, someone who has been through the grind and knows how to compete for a championship. Love would be a good veteran presence to help the young guys go through several rounds of the playoffs and make it back to the Finals for the first time since LeBron wore a Cavs jersey.
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