Kevin Love: Latest News, Rumors and Speculation on Free-Agent Star PF
Kevin Love opted out of his contract with the Cavaliers, but he reportedly intends to stay in Cleveland.
The Lakers, Celtics and Rockets are among the teams who expressed interest in the Cavs' star prior to the announcement.
Continue for updates.
Love Announces Return to Cavaliers
Wednesday, July 1
Love made a statement on The Players Tribune regarding his decision to remain in Cleveland:
"I’m going back to Cleveland.
After Game 1 of the NBA Finals, that’s when it really struck me. Sitting on the sidelines, I never wanted to play in a game more than that one. I had dreamed of playing in the NBA Finals and I just wanted to help my guys win. I couldn’t have been prouder of them as they poured their blood, sweat and tears onto the court.
Yeah, of course I’ve heard the free agency rumors. But at the end of the day, and after meeting with my teammates (it turns out pools are great meeting places) and with the front office, it was clear Cleveland was the place for me. We’re all on the same page and we’re all in. We have unfinished business and now it’s time to get back to work.
"
ESPN's Brian Windhorst reported Love's extension will be for five years, $110 million.
Earlier in the week after Windhorst reported James also opted out of his contract, the teammates were spotted poolside in Los Angeles by Rolling Stone's Jensen Karp:
The relationship between Love and James was a topic of debate during the season. Joe Vardon of Cleveland.com provided insight from a source discussing Love and James' poolside gathering:
"Sources confirmed that James, who is in L.A. for his annual skills camp for high school and college players, and Love did spend time together Sunday, but downplayed its importance.
[...]
A source close to James said last week that he didn't plan to recruit Love to stay. Sources said Sunday that the James-Love hangout poolside wasn't a recruitment meeting.
"They were teammates and probably still will be," a league source said. "What's the big deal?"
"
With Love rejoining the fray, the Cavaliers remain the most dangerous team in the East and are immediate contenders to make another run at the Finals this season.
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