AP sources: Love, Cavaliers finalize buyout
>> Kevin Love was the last link to Cleveland's memorable 2016 championship. He'll chase another title elsewhere.
The five-time All-Star and the Cavs completed a buyout of his contract Saturday, freeing the forward to sign with another team. Love is strongly considering a move to the Miami Heat, two people with knowledge of the matter said.
The people spoke to The Associated Press on condition of anonymity because Love, who has been with Cleveland since 2014, must still clear waivers before he can sign with a new team.
Other teams are expected to bid for Love, who is making $31.3 million this season, before he finalizes a decision, one of the people told the AP.
Unhappy that he had been dropped from the Cavs' rotation this season, the 34-year-old formally requested a buyout earlier this week. Love sat out Cleveland's past 12 games before the Al-Star break and there was little indication his playing time would increase anytime soon.
Love believes he can still play at a high level, and his postseason experience makes him attractive to any contenders.
His nine-year tenure with the Cavs had its ups and downs, but he'll be remembered for his role in helping Cleveland overcome a 3-1 deficit to stun the Golden State Warriors in the Finals seven years ago to end the city's 52-year title drought.
Love figured to have a prominent role this season for the Cavs, but he was slowed by a thumb injury that affected his shot. He's averaging career-lows of 8.5 points, 6.8 rebounds and 20 minutes per game.
The Cavs' recent acquisition of forward and sharpshooter Danny Green pushed Love even further down Cleveland's bench.