Cavaliers Face Tough Trade Market for Kevin Love

The Cavaliers appear ready to fully discuss trades involving All-Star big man Kevin Love. Cleveland is off to a 6-19 record to start the year, opening the door for a youth movement that would likely exclude the 31-year-old veteran.

According to The Athletic’s Jason Lloyd, the Cavs might have to temper their expectations when evaluating potential returns for Love. Lloyd explained that Love’s contract, that runs through the 2022-23 season, is lowering his value.

The Cavs are asking for a first-round pick in exchange for Love, one source with knowledge of the situation said. But teams are actually asking for a first-round pick from Cleveland just to absorb the final 3 1/2 years on his deal. It only takes one injury or one team to change all of that, but at this point, the gap between what the Cavs want and what is being offered seems pretty wide.

Lloyd continued with a comment from an unnamed league executive.

One league executive, whose team has not discussed a Love deal with the Cavs, believes they may eventually be able to get a first-round pick for him, depending on how much salary the Cavs are willing to take back. There are a few complications, beginning with the fact there aren’t many bad contracts left in the league.

Through 21 contests this season, Love is averaging 16.4 points and 10.8 rebounds per game.

You can read Lloyd’s full post at The Athletic (subscription required).