LeBron James was a driving force behind the Cavaliers’ decision to acquire Kevin Love last year, but the four-time league MVP reportedly will not try to sell his teammate on staying in Cleveland this time around.
Love on Wednesday opted out of the final year of his contract — a move that makes financial sense since he stands to gain $2 million more this way. There is no word yet on whether Love will re-sign with Cleveland or see what other teams have to offer. Regardless, he won’t be receiving the hard sell from James.
Chris Haynes of the Cleveland Plain Dealer reports that James will not be re-recruiting Love:
LeBron James won't be re-recruiting Kevin Love, I'm told. He believes Love understands he can be a part of something special. It's his call.
— Chris Haynes (@ChrisBHaynes) June 24, 2015
This is the same approach Kobe Bryant took with Dwight Howard two years ago. Kobe felt that he didn’t want to have to convince Howard to stay with the Lakers, which makes sense.
Really what it comes down to is that a player either wants to be in a situation or does not. Players generally try harder and play better when they like their situation. If Love does not enjoy being on the Cavs, he should not come back, and LeBron recognizes that. You also have to wonder how much James would miss Love if he left given the tension between the two during the season.
