Both Kevin Love and LeBron James have the ability to opt out of their contract after this season in Cleveland, giving them the ability to re-sign with the team for more money next year.
Many saw this as a smart business move - the salary cap and player contracts are expected greatly increase after this season. However, Love is reportedly "strongly considering" using that option to return to Los Angeles (where he played for UCLA) and join the Lakers.
When Cleveland made the trade with Minnesota for Love, there were reports of a handshake agreement between the two sides that Love would re-sign with the team once his contract was up.
But according to a report from Sam Smith at Bulls.com, sources say Love is really interested in going back to LA.
It’s not going to get as much discussion during the season, but one of the biggest issues for the Cavs is that both LeBron James and Kevin Love own opt outs after this season. LeBron James basically cannot afford to go anywhere after his return to Cleveland. But watch out for Love. Indications are he will seriously consider the opt out and has his eyes on a return to Los Angeles, where he attended college and where the Lakers long have had him on their free agent wish list.
It's still way to early to know if this report is reliable and there's a lot of season left Love to decide he's all in on Cleveland.
Still, this will be a storyline worth watching throughout the season that will only gain more steam if Cleveland continues to struggle. Love is averaging 18 ppg and 11.2 rpg through the Cavaliers' first five games.
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