CLEVELAND, Ohio -- Why is it that nationally recognized media members have to create rumors? Is it to get more hits? More views? More recognition? Kevin Love heading back to the west coast was just that.
I can understand, being a sports journalist, that a reporter wants to get the first take on a story, but please... let's get real here. Kevin Love is going nowhere but deep into the playoffs, and most likely the Finals next year with the Cleveland Cavaliers.
Kevin Love has repeatedly said, "I'm a Cavalier long-term." During a NBA Finals press conference on May 31, 2015 he was asked if he would be a Cavalier next year and he responded, "Yes, sir."
So are we to believe that Kevin Love was embellishing?
I don't think so!
Kevin Love was a vital part of the Cleveland Cavaliers and their road to the NBA Finals. It is very unfortunate that he was injured by Kelly Olynyk in the first round of the playoffs as Love was having a great post season. He seemed rejuvenated!
I know there are Cleveland haters, but to take a player and a fan base and insinuate that he will be leaving in the off-season is just unfair. Granted, Kevin Love opted out of the final year of his contract. However, it was a wise move by the Cavaliers stretch four.
He is doing his due diligence in opting out because he wants to be sure that the Cavs bring back a championship contender team for the 2015/2016 season. Kevin Love is a smart man, he realizes that by opting in to the final year at $16,700,000 he could be taking a risk and leave money on the table.
So if anyone with the first name of Jalen reads this, remember that Cleveland does not quit, does not allow anyone to disrespect their own, and they want you to realize Kevin Love is a Cavalier now and for the foreseeable future. The sacrifice he has made this season has been difficult for sure, but Kevin has his eyes on the prize, an NBA title and ring.
Cleveland loves Kevin Love (no pun intended). He is one of the most humble basketball players, and a quiet giant on the court. He will be welcomed back at the Quicken Loans Arena next year with a round of applause.
Many questions still exist in Cleveland. J.R. Smith has also opted out for his pay-day, but $8 million a year for three years might be stretching it for the streaky shooter he is. He fit well as the fourth option on offense, having open looks to be able to put up those three pointers. Does G.M. David Griffin feel that he is worth it? The Cavaliers may not have any choice but to re-sign Smith. Restricted free agents Tristan Thompson and Iman Shumpert are next. If the Cavaliers can re-sign these two, we have a possible dynasty in the making - salary cap be damned!