Helping a team get to the point of reaching the NBA Finals only to watch from the sideline has got to be difficult. That is exactly what Cleveland Cavaliers big man Kevin Love is going through during the current series. Despite reports suggesting he will jump ship in free agency, it appears watching the Cavaliers play in Game 1 of the NBA Finals has given him the necessary confidence Cleveland is where he wants to be going forward.
“I had so much fun watching it because I want to be in a moment like that,” Love said after witnessing the Cavaliers lose to the Golden State Warriors in overtime. “I’d rather be out there helping those guys, and I saw a lot of places where I could help.
“I’ve never wanted to be in a game more than that one,” Love continued.
As a member of the Minnesota Timberwolves for six seasons, Love never experienced the playoffs. That is quite astonishing considering how easy it is to clinch a postseason berth in the NBA. Essentially, being able to see what the Cavaliers have accomplished on their impressive playoff run has only motivated him more to be a part of a NBA Finals team. The good news for Cleveland is his desire to play at the game’s highest level will bode well for his future with the team.
When Love was asked point-blank if he wants to play for the Cavaliers next season, he said, “Yes. I want to win.”
Even though a loss in Game 1 was heartbreaking, Cleveland still has a solid shot of winning a championship this year, assuming point guard Kyrie Irving’s injury does not prevent him from playing. If anything, fans can rest easy knowing they will get another legitimate shot next season with Love determined to activate his player option.
Michael Terrill is a Senior Writer for Rant Sports. Follow him on Twitter @MichaelTerrill, “Like” him on Facebook or add him to your network on Google.