Before the beginning of the season many speculated that the Cleveland Cavaliers were going to dominate the league, and now that they’re off to a rough start there are reports that Love is looking to jump ship and join the LA Lakers. Hit the jump for details.
Via NBC Sports:
Kevin Love has said he wants more inside touches, and LeBron James acknowledges getting those looks for Love will be an adjustment.
Chris Bosh predicted this, and so did Timberwolves owner Glen Taylor.
Every naysayer is seeing those warning signs come to fruition and chomping at the bit after the Cavaliers’ 2-3 start.
Which leads to…
Sam Smith of Bulls.com:
It’s not going to get as much discussion during the season, but one of the biggest issues for the Cavs is that both LeBron James and Kevin Love own opt outs after this season. LeBron James basically cannot afford to go anywhere after his return to Cleveland. But watch out for Love. Indications are he will seriously consider the opt out and has his eyes on a return to Los Angeles, where he attended college and where the Lakers long have had him on their free agent wish list.
Of course Love will opt out.
His 2015-16 salary is slated to be $16,744,219. But because he’d be eligible for a higher max contract due to his years of experience and the NBA salary cap is rising, Love projects to have a max salary of $18,602,898 next season.
So, even if Love believes staying in Cleveland one more year is his best option – what he’d be declaring by opting in – there’s no good reason to opt in. He could just opt out and re-sign on a one-year contract while giving himself a $1,858,679 raise.
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