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LeBron James was concerned about Kevin Love’s winning mentality

By Michael Reynoso

Jan 31, 2015; Minneapolis, MN, USA; Cleveland Cavaliers forward LeBron James (23) and forward Kevin Love (0) against the Minnesota Timberwolves at Target Center. The Cavaliers defeated the Timberwolves 106-90. Mandatory Credit: Brace Hemmelgarn-USA TODAY Sports
Jan 31, 2015; Minneapolis, MN, USA; Cleveland Cavaliers forward LeBron James (23) and forward Kevin Love (0) against the Minnesota Timberwolves at Target Center. The Cavaliers defeated the Timberwolves 106-90. Mandatory Credit: Brace Hemmelgarn-USA TODAY Sports /
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LeBron James was reportedly concerned with Kevin Love’s winning mentality throughout the 2014-15 season.

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During the 2014-2015 preseason, megastar LeBron James was reportedly upset with his teammate Kevin Love, for “not fitting in.” James was also concerned about Love’s mindset when it came to winning in tight situations, as he was most recently reported by Ethan Skolnick.

"It (Kevin Love re-signing) also should alleviate James’ concerns, which he expressed to many confidants, especially early in the season, that Love wasn’t ready to put winning first."

Despite Love’s excellent individual production, he never made the playoffs with the Minnesota Timberwolves for six years. That was his norm during those six seasons in the league: regular season and bust. Joining a title-contending Cleveland Cavaliers team was definitely a culture shock for him. Love also had to sacrifice his monstrous double-double games for the betterment of the team.

LeBron could be impatient at times with Love’s adjustment.

However, to Love’s credit, he showed a huge commitment to winning by taking a leap of faith in re-signing with the Cavaliers. He could have bolted to a bigger market (Los Angeles Lakers) if he wanted, escaping LeBron’s shadow and not being involved with the offense.

Instead, Love valued winning.

Next season, I expect both Love and LeBron to gel better than last season. Love will have to show that he is committed and willing to make sacrifices necessary to win.

LeBron’s concerns were understandable for the most part, but if this all go well for Cleveland, they will unite and win it all.

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