Ranking every Miami Heat player by trade likelihood
10. Kevin Love
- Contract: 2 years / $7.9 million
- 2023-24 Salary: $3.84 million
In his 15th NBA season, power forward Kevin Love has experienced a wide range of basketball situations. When Love decided to sign with the Heat, he understood that he wouldn't be taking on a starring role. At the age of 35, his days of being a five-time All-Star are behind him. Love had lost his place in the rotation during his ninth season with the Cavaliers and sought a fresh start that would provide him with a more prominent on-court role in the later stages of his career. Despite this, he has proven himself to be a valuable leader and mentor both on and off the court, contributing in any way he can.
Within Miami's locker room, the veteran has become known for his humor and lighthearted personality. These qualities, combined with his on-court achievements, quickly elevated him to a leadership position after joining the team midway through last season.
Love this season is averaging 9.6 points, 7.0 rebounds, and 2.5 assists per game, while his shooting percentages have been noteworthy, as he's been making an impressive 42.7% from the field, 36.9% from the 3-point line, and is an 82.1% free-throw shooter.
So far this season, Love has been among the most productive backup players for Miami and has established himself as the team's primary backup center. When Adebayo was sidelined for seven games with a hip injury, Love stepped up his performance and averaged 12.3 points and 6.3 rebounds in 20.8 minutes per game in that span.
Spoelstra emphasizes Love's importance to the organization, highlighting his ability to bring the team together. With his skill set, which includes the ability to stretch the floor and excel in rebounding, Love possesses qualities that are highly sought after by many teams in the league.