Cavs: 3 reasons why the Lauri Markkanen deal was a good idea

Reason 3: This trade signals the end of the Kevin Love era in Cleveland 

During Kevin Love’s career in Cleveland, there have been many ups and many downs. Since arriving, Love has been involved in trade discussions which have slowed down due to the large extension he received three years ago.

Since LeBron’s departure, the Cavaliers have returned to being the bottom feeders of the NBA and during this time, Love’s expressions to the team have been present. Outbreaks and cryptic messages from him have led to unnecessary drama which could derail a young team like the Cavs.

Continuing to project culture while letting Love continue his outbursts doesn’t make sense.

Adding that on top of the injuries he’s had with the decline in play and a buyout seems best for both parties. Love hasn’t been the right veteran for this rebuild and that’s okay. The memories that both parties have created are lost-lasting and a buyout would allow Love to compete once again as he enters the twilight of his career.

The only downfall is the money that Love would look to give back in a buyout which seems to be the reason why a buyout hasn’t occurred yet. Markkanen makes a buyout move likely as the frontcourt is loaded and there aren’t enough minutes to go around.

Overall, a full youth movement seems forthcoming. The Cavaliers’ plan of adding talent and figuring the fit out later has worked so far and they still have time to make those pressing decisions. Markkanen’s deal ends as Mobley is eligible for an extension and it shouldn’t affect any other rookie extensions that come over the coming years.

This move makes sense and is an aggressive one by Koby Altman that should have an interesting result.