The Minnesota Timberwolves helped Kevin Love become a three-time All-Star before trading him to the Cavaliers in 2014, but he hasn’t been that player in years. The 6’8 forward has seen his minutes decline for five straight seasons, and an offseason trade has him stuck in Utah for the final year of his contract. No team has traded for Love’s $4.1 million salary, and the Jazz haven’t had buyout talks. It looks like the five-time All-Star will have to sit in Salt Lake City.
Love averaged 7.7 points, 4.0 rebounds, 1.0 assist, and 1.3 turnovers in 17.7 minutes per game in the preseason. He is shooting 66.7 percent from the field and 62.5 percent on his threes in the limited sample, but Utah has been outscored by 26 points in his just over 53 minutes of action. The veteran likely moves on at some point this season, but no contender is breaking down the door to acquire Love.
Fans are still rooting for a Timberwolves reunion, but it is extremely unlikely. Minnesota is focused on adding depth, especially at the point guard position. Love’s preseason aside, he would be unlikely to crack the playoff rotation in Minnesota.
Kevin Love is declining with no sign of bounce back
Love averaged 5.3 points, 4.1 rebounds, and 1.0 assist in 10.9 minutes per game last season for the Heat. He only appeared in 23 contests and shot 35.7 percent from the field. Most of his attempts came from 3-point range, and Love produced a 0.2 value over replacement player (VORP). It was the worst mark of his 17-year NBA career. Consider it another sign the future Hall of Famer is nearing the end of his legendary tenure.
The Heat couldn’t say no to the Norman Powell trade that sent Love and Kyle Anderson to Utah. LA was eager to turn Powell’s contract into John Collins, and Miami desperately needed some scoring punch. The Jazz didn’t want either veteran but was happy to dump Collins and get a draft pick. The deal worked for all involved, except Love.
The 37-year-old wants to finish his career on a contender where he can chase another championship. Utah is rebuilding and has no reason to play him. Love will be long retired by the time the Jazz return to the playoffs. The franchise is not rejecting trade calls, but none of the other 29 teams are making them.
Love played a role in Miami’s 2023 run to the NBA Finals. He has been through the playoff wars and won a championship. The lack of interest further proves how far his game has fallen.
The Minnesota Timberwolves traded Kevin Love in his prime because they couldn’t build a contender around him. Those were dark days for the franchise. Thankfully, Anthony Edwards has revived the Wolves and helped them reach back-to-back conference finals. The storybook ending for Love is returning to where it started to help them win it all. It seems unlikely, given his decline, but fans can still dream.