9 Offseason Moves The Cleveland Cavaliers Must Address
Apr 19, 2015; Cleveland, OH, USA; Boston Celtics forward
Jared Sullinger(7) and forward
Jae Crowder(99) defend a shot by Cleveland Cavaliers forward
Love
(0) in the second quarter in game one of the first round of the NBA Playoffs at Quicken Loans Arena. Mandatory Credit: David Richard-USA TODAY Sports
What could’ve been if Kevin Love had been healthy for his series? His ability to shoot the 3 would’ve given the Warriors fits when the Cavs ran their small lineup. With Love at center, Golden State would have no one in the paint, which would’ve let LeBron go crazy at the basket.
Instead, Kelly Olynyk ruined what could’ve been a magical ending to a terrific season.
With Love, the Cavs will probably offer a max deal–although it’s not a given. Love’s gone through shoulder and back injuries since joining Cleveland, and giving the UCLA product a $100 million deal isn’t a slam dunk.
The Cavs also made it to the Finals without him. That’s something to consider as Tristan Thompson may be a better fit because of his ability to create extra possessions.
Like it or not, the Cavs have a lot invested in Love because they traded a budding superstar for his services–with LeBron’s endorsement.
Next: The TT Effect