Sources: Love eyes Miami after Cavs deal

SALT LAKE CITY >> 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 was with Cleveland since 2014, must still clear waivers before he can sign with a new team.

Love's departure ends his tenure with the Cavs that came during the team's most successful run.

“Kevin represented the organization and the city of Cleveland with the utmost charm and professionalism during his nine seasons in Northeast Ohio,” Cavs president of basketball of operations Koby Altman said. “He also embodied everything a franchise would want in a player, and the admiration and gratitude we have for him will ultimately land his jersey in the rafters of Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse.

“We thank Kevin for his impact and wish him nothing but the best, knowing that he has solidified his place in the hearts of Cavaliers fans and this organization forever.”

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.

“Hopefully he decides to bring his shooting down to 305 so we can end the season on a very high note,” Heat guard Tyler Herro said, referencing the Miami area code.

Unhappy that he had been dropped from the Cavs' rotation this season, the 34-yearold formally requested a buyout earlier this week.