It seemed like Cleveland Cavaliers star Kevin Love was reaching the end of his career.
There was a point long ago during his time in the NBA when Love was landing 26.1 points, 12.5 rebounds, and 4.4 assists a game.
And then things slowly dwindled down from there.
After 14 seasons in the league, it looked like everything was coming to a close for Love, who has appeared in five All-Star Games, won Most Improved Player, and even landed a championship ring.
But no one told that to Love because he has rebounded in a major way and is having a stellar season.
Kevin Love tonight:
25 Points
9 Rebounds
2 Assists
2 Steals
56% FG
5 Threes
26 Minutes pic.twitter.com/stzmJ0OQ4b— Hoop Central (@TheHoopCentral) January 27, 2022
The Cavs are back and so is one of their star players.
Love Leading
It’s no secret that the Cavaliers are filled with some of the youngest and most promising talent in the league.
From rookie breakout Evan Mobley to Darius Garland to Jarrett Allen to Dean Wade and others, the Cavs are full of youthful energy and determination.
Yet it is Love, who turned 33 in September, who has become such an important part of the team.
Not only is he putting up amazing numbers this year (14.1 points, 7.2 rebounds, and 2.1 assists) but he is also imparting some of his hard-earned and reliable wisdom to the young guys.
This isn’t Love’s first rodeo but, for many others on the team, it is.
The Cavs are definitely making it into the postseason this year and there is even a good chance they go all the way to the Eastern Conference Finals.
Don't let the Baker Mayfield debate distract you from the fact that Kevin Love and the Cleveland Cavaliers have more wins than LeBron James with the Lakers and Kyrie Irving with the Nets. pic.twitter.com/7SOzOYPM2R
— Nick Karns (@karnsies817) January 27, 2022
While the young squad has a whole lot of excitement about that prospect, none of them have much experience.
Love does.
So while Love has been doing incredible work on the floor and has been helping his team win games, he’s also been assisting his fellow players with being prepared and working as a unit and having what it takes to go all the way.
You often hear people talk about the assets that veteran NBA stars can be: Love is showing what that is.
He’s also been a soft spoken guy, someone who isn’t as loud and boisterous as others.
Love leads from behind and that’s what he’s doing now – and it’s helping set up his team for the biggest success they’ve had in years.
Sticking With It
You have to hand it to Love – he’s been with the Cavs through thick and thin.
He played alongside LeBron James and won a ring with him…and he was there after King James departed and left the team in shambles.
The last few seasons have been rough with the Cavs and Love has never left their side.
Perhaps that’s why he’s playing with such invigorated spirit and attitude.
He’s been at both the top and the bottom – and he knows the top feels way, way better.
His commitment and dedication is paying off and the Cavs are having a splendid season.
They have already far surpassed expectations and show little sign of slowing down now.
Whatever comes next for the team, Love will be a vital part of that.
With his cool head, immense basketball smarts, and dedication to pour his heart out for every game, Love has become a pivotal piece of the playoff puzzle for Cleveland.
NEXT: Cavaliers Finally Finding Success Without LeBron James