NBA Rumors: Kevin Love wouldn’t pick up 2015-16 player option for Cleveland Cavaliers
By Sam Richmond
If the Cleveland Cavaliers trade for Kevin Love, they might have to do so without an assurance, at least in contract form, that the two-time all-star’s plan would be to stay with the team long term, according to a report from Terry Pluto of the Cleveland Plain Dealer.
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Love has a 2015-16 season player option that the Cavs might want him to pick up following a trade; however, Love might favor simply playing out next season and becoming a free agent. Still, that doesn’t mean Love wouldn’t ultimately remain in Cleveland for years to come.
Pluto writes:
"6. I’m hearing Love will not pick up his option — that he would prefer to go to the Cavs on his current deal, then presumably enjoy being successful playing with LeBron James. Remember, he also has done a commercial with Kyrie Irving. He sees marketing possibilities in Cleveland — along with a chance to win big.7. I’m hearing the Cavs realize they may have to accept Love’s current deal and gamble on him enjoying playing in Cleveland and with James. Then they will try to sign him for a maximum deal in 2015. So don’t be shocked if a deal is made with his contract situation staying the same."
While t’s hard to imagine Love not enjoying his time playing with LeBron and Kyrie Irving and then leaving next summer, Cleveland would be putting themselves in a vulnerable position.
For a player of Love’s talent, it’s probably worth it. Love averaged 26.1 points and 12.5 rebounds per game in 2013-14.