Sometimes life isn’t fair: 5 trade destinations for Kevin Love
By John Buhler
Utah Jazz
West, Northwest
Okay, we’re going to need to make a sign-and-trade here. If the Utah Jazz want to try to get something for free agent Gordon Hayward, maybe make a deal that involves him briefly inking a new contract before being sent to the Cavaliers for Love.
Hayward is one of the few players that would actually make the Cavaliers better in their quest to beat Golden State. He is a traditional small forward with athleticism, defensive tenacity and willingness to play above the rim. If James is cool with playing the four, he should consider how much Hayward could help his Cavaliers out on the wing.
As for Love to Utah, would that be a great fit for him? Potentially, as Utah plays at a more methodical pace than does Cleveland. He would give them more balance offensively while still maintaining an elite level of play on the glass. Love would mesh marvelously next to center Rudy Gobert. Trading for Love would make it easier for the Jazz to keep starting point guard George Hill as well.
Swapping Hayward for Love would still keep Utah as one of the better four teams in the Western Conference. They could use that money they wouldn’t be using on Derrick Favors to bring another shooter into the fold besides re-upping with Joe Ingles in restricted free agency.
Another good part about going to the Jazz is that head coach Quin Snyder is keen on player development. He’d be the new star on the team and working with Snyder could allow Love to get back to an All-NBA level. We would see a more refined Love playing for a 50+ win team in Salt Lake City for the foreseeable future. Cleveland would get its guy in Hayward to better help beat Golden State in future NBA Finals.