Kevin Love told LeBron James he wanted to join Cavaliers in July
By Sam Richmond
The Cleveland Cavaliers didn’t acquire Kevin Love from the Minnesota Timberwolves until August 23, but the three-time all-star committed to Cleveland long before then.
Love revealed in his introductory press conference that he let it be known to LeBron James that he wanted to join the Cavaliers once James announced his decision to sign with Cleveland in Sports Illustrated on July 11.
#Cavs Kevin Love: LeBron called me [shortly] after he signed, and I said simply 'I'm in'.
— John Michael (@CavsJMike) August 26, 2014
This is far from shocking. Once the Cavs signed James, the team became the overwhelming favorite to trade for Love and the basketball world has known for a while now that such a move was inevitable.
Love wanted to play for a winner and there was no better option for him than the Cavs, with the four-time MVP James and improving point guard Kyrie Irving in the fold.
Love also spoke about his championship aspirations at his press conference.
#Cavs F Kevin Love on signing long term: "That's something that hasn't been talked about. I'm committed to this team to win championships."
— Bob Finnan (@BobCavsinsider) August 26, 2014
"LeBron and I have had conversations that I need to mentally prepare myself to play into June.'' Love on playoff pressure he is yet to feel.
— Joe Cowley (@JCowleyHoops) August 26, 2014
Cleveland is absolutely the favorite to make it to the NBA Finals from the Eastern Conference and play into June, but whether this team will be able to gel quick enough to win a title in Year 1 of this new Cavs era remains to be seen.