Cleveland Cavaliers star Kevin Love reiterated the stance he's had since the beginning of the season: He doesn't plan to leave Cleveland in free agency. Regardless of his proclamations, and the reports to the contrary, the New York Knicks purportedly still plan to pursue him in July.
Love has kept to the same line all season. He has said he plans to remain a Cavalier beyond this season, and he said the same thing Monday. When asked on "The Dan Patrick Show" whether winning a title would effect the decision he makes in July, when he's eligible to opt out of his deal and become a free agent, Love said: "I plan on being a Cavalier either way."
Cleveland and Love both had rocky starts to the season. Although the team is now second in the East and Love's numbers have somewhat improved, there've still been reports about Love not being sold on staying in Cleveland long-term. A report earlier this year from ESPN's Chris Broussard indicated a number of NBA executives believe Love will leave in free agency, and reports from Basketball Insiders' Steve Kyler indicated Love was undecided about free agency and would be willing to meet with the Los Angeles Lakers this summer.
Regardless of the reports, the Knicks supposedly plan to pursue Love after the season. Kyler indicated Love sat atop the top of Knicks president Phil Jackson's wish list, and Jackson would at least explore the possibility of signing him in free agency by making an offer to him.
While New York has the allure of being a big market team with the cap space to offer Love a big deal, the Knicks don't have a playoff-caliber roster. If winning a title is truly what matters most to Love, it seems improbable he would leave the one team that gives him the best chance of doing so.
