The Cleveland Cavaliers and Kevin Love are officially parting ways, as the team is finalizing a contract buyout with Love. The five-time All-Star is expected to become a free agent and the Miami Heat are reportedly at the front of the line as potential suitors.
Love is in the final year of his contract, set to earn $28.9 million this season. Despite the hefty price tag, the Cavaliers are just under the luxury tax line and the buyout will not save them money against the cap. However, it will save them cash out of pocket if Love takes a discount and gets that money back by signing with the Heat or another team.
At 34, Love is not the same player that he was during his prime years with the Cavaliers and Minnesota Timberwolves. This season, he is averaging 8.5 points and 6.8 rebounds while shooting 35.4% from three-point range. His best attributes are still his rebounding and outlet passing, which could make him an attractive piece for the Heat.
The Heat, currently sitting in fifth place in the Eastern Conference, are desperately searching for help along the front line. Rookie Caleb Martin has been starting at the four for most of the season, but Love could provide some much-needed experience and stability.
Love is expected to receive interest from other teams as well. The Brooklyn Nets, Los Angeles Clippers, and Los Angeles Lakers are all potential landing spots for the veteran forward. It is unclear where Love will end up, but it will be interesting to see what team he ends up with as he embarks on the next chapter of his career.
