1. Kevin Love, PF, Cleveland Cavaliers
Kevin Love is entering the first year of his four-year, $120.4 million extension, but it’s unclear how long he’ll be in Cleveland.
In mid-June, ESPN’s Brian Windhorst said Love had “been out there in some trade talks, but it’s hard to find the right deal for him.” He added it was “50/50” whether Love would be back with the Cavaliers this season, although it seems as though Love will at least begin the year in Cleveland.
“I continue to sense that the most likely outcome is starting the season with Love, allowing him to play well in [new head coach John] Beilein’s friendly system while setting the culture, helping the three rookies transition to the NBA — on and off the court — and boost his value,” Chris Fedor of Cleveland.com wrote in July. “Then, the Cavs could potentially revisit a trade when another team moves into go-for-it mode around the deadline.”
According to Fedor, the Cavs would want “some combination of young players and draft picks” for Love. “Not one or the other,” he added. “Both.”
It’s difficult to imagine any team meeting that asking price, but desperation could drive a potential suitor to take on Love’s gigantic contract regardless. After all, he proved capable of serving as a critical component of a championship team in 2015-16, and his long-range shooting ability — he’s a career 37.0 percent shooter from deep — makes him a perfect fit alongside a traditional paint-bound center.
The Cavaliers are in the beginning stages of what figures to be a multiyear rebuild, while Love is at the tail end of his prime. Although his leadership would be invaluable in a young Cleveland locker room, both sides may be better off parting ways at the trade deadline to allow each to maximize their respective windows.
Unless otherwise noted, all stats via NBA.com or Basketball-Reference. All salary information via Early Bird Rights.
Follow @btoporek