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USA's Kevin Love raises his arms as he celebrates after a 3-pointer by teammate Carmelo Anthony during a men's basketball game against Nigeria at the 2012 Summer Olympics, Thursday, Aug. 2, 2012, in London. (AP Photo/Charles Krupa)
USA's Kevin Love raises his arms as he celebrates after a 3-pointer by teammate Carmelo Anthony during a men's basketball game against Nigeria at the 2012 Summer Olympics, Thursday, Aug. 2, 2012, in London. (AP Photo/Charles Krupa)Charles Krupa/Associated Press

Kevin Love Says He Would Play for Team USA in 2016 Olympics If Invited

Danny WebsterApr 8, 2016

Kevin Love would like to spend his summer in Brazil.

The Cleveland Cavaliers' All-Star forward told Chris Haynes of Cleveland.com he will play for Team USA in the 2016 Olympics in Rio de Janeiro if he's selected.

"If they pick me, I'll play," Love said, per Haynes.

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If picked for the final roster, Love will play in his second straight Olympic Games. He was a member of the 2012 United States team that won the gold medal in London and won all but one game by double figures. Love and Anthony Davis were the two power forwards on that team.

Love was also slated to be a member of the 2014 FIBA World Cup roster but had to back out due to his uncertain future with the Minnesota Timberwolves. He was traded to the Cavaliers on Aug. 23, 2014.

Cleveland signed Love to a five-year contract last July, so his future shouldn't be in question this time when trying out for Team USA. Unlike 2012, however, it will not be easy for Love to make the Olympic team. Notable finalists to make the team at power forward and center are DeMarcus Cousins, Andre Drummond, Draymond Green, DeAndre Jordan, Blake Griffin and Davis.

If Love plays in Rio, it could also be a risk for him in terms of health. The Cavaliers are an overwhelming favorite to make the NBA Finals this year. Barring injury, Love is expected to contribute and play many minutes for Cleveland in a potential finals run. He's already established himself on the Olympic stage before, so there's nothing for Love to prove.

Team USA head coach Mike Krzyzewski is good at limiting minutes and making sure everyone has an equal opportunity to see playing time, so Love will have that benefit. But playing extended basketball after the season is always a risk, and that's what Love will have to face should he get picked.

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