Kevin Love expected to draw trade interest

Kevin Love seems almost like a forgotten figure in the NBA, likely because of how little he played last season. But for teams that do not make the free agent addition they want this summer, he could be an excellent trade option.

Love signed a four-year, $120 million contract extension last summer that begins this season. He is owed $28.9 million in the first and last year of his deal, and $31.2 million in the middle two seasons. Though that’s a lot of money, it’s not astronomical, and something a team looking to contend might be open to adding. The Cavaliers also are rebuilding and might be willing to deal him for other assets, such as draft picks.

Longtime Cavaliers reporter Sam Amico mentioned in a column published on Friday that the Utah Jazz, Denver Nuggets and New Orleans Pelicans all have some level of interest in Love. He added that the Indiana Pacers might also want Love. Separately, the Portland Trail Blazers have also been mentioned in connection with Love.

Love averaged 17.0 points and 10.9 rebounds per game in 22 contests last season. He has always been known as a good rebounding and passing big man who also can shoot the three, making him a valuable commodity in today’s NBA. His defensive play and injuries have been weaknesses associated with him.