Brace Hemmelgarn-USA TODAY Sports
What might appear frightening on the surface may not be too bad after all. All-Stars LeBron James and Kevin Love both decided to opt out of their contracts with the Cleveland Cavaliers to test free agency. Even though James and Love may see what is available to them on the open market, the likelihood of both players re-signing with the Cavaliers is very high.
According to sources, the Cavaliers will officially offer Love a maximum contract worth $110 million over five years. Despite the possibility of taking meetings with other teams, Love is expected to accept the deal. This should not come as a surprise after he discussed his desire to play in the NBA Finals and remain with a team that can get him there.
“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 in Game 1. “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 far as James is concerned, he will likely sign a two-year deal that includes a player option on the second year, which will be a mirrored version of the contract he signed last summer. James did not depart South Beach to make his return to Cleveland and lead the Cavaliers to the brink of a championship only to ship out immediately. He wants nothing more than to bring Cleveland a title, which will most likely occur next year.
Even though there has been rumored tension between James and Love, the reality is both players would be foolish to leave the great situation they have found themselves in with the Cavaliers. It cannot always be sunny in paradise, something both men understand. But, none of that will matter if they can call themselves NBA champions one year from now.
No one should be shocked if James and Love are both members of the Cavaliers by the end of the week.
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.
