The ‘IF Kevin Love is Traded, For Who?’ Piece

Jan 13, 2015; Phoenix, AZ, USA; Cleveland Cavaliers forward

(0) during the third quarter against the Phoenix Suns at US Airways Center. Phoenix won 107-100. Mandatory Credit: Casey Sapio-USA TODAY Sports

The Cleveland Cavaliers won last night against a very good team in the Los Angeles Clippers. Kevin Love sat out the game with back issues. He could possibly sit out a few more games, much like LeBron James, to allow his back time to fully heal. He has seemed to have problems with compression in his lower back which has impacted him on both ends of the floor. His jumper has no lift and his ability to defend has been worse than advertised.

Even before last night’s game many had wondered if the Cavs would be better off trading Love this season. This became a question as many think he could opt out at the end of the season, even though he has repeatedly said he would not. Others wondered if Love has become unhappy with his role on the team while still others wonder if he will ever fit alongside James and Kyrie Irving.

His lack of defense, his inability to fit in with the team and his long standing as a Top 10 player in the league has made the idea of trading Kevin Love possible but not likely.

Yet, because we care about the Cavaliers and are willing to discuss the possibilities, we bring you our “IF Kevin Love is Traded, For Who?” piece. We do not say that each of these trades is a good idea but we will note the good and bad of each trade possibility. We will look to trades that make sense from a salary cap purposes but also some that would need creative 3 and 4 team trades. Each slide will look at meaningful trade possibilities.

Next: Trade Partners: Phoenix Suns