It still seems somewhat surreal that Kevin Love is now on the Utah Jazz. It will be even more surreal when his role likely increases following the extremely unfortunate season-ending Walker Kessler injury. However, the latest intel on Love suggests that not only has he embraced being a Jazzman, but it could pave the way for him to be a Jazzman beyond this season.
ClutchPoints' Brett Siegel reported the full details of how much Love has enjoyed playing for the Jazz and what that means for this season.
"After being traded to the Utah Jazz, it seemed as if former five-time All-Star Kevin Love would seek a buyout. That no longer appears to be the case, at least as of right now, as he has embraced his role as the veteran leader of this young Jazz team. Love has played in three consecutive games for Will Hardy since Walker Kessler suffered his season-ending shoulder injury, and he seems to be having fun with this young team.
"Since joining the Jazz, Love has formed a strong connection with his 37-year-old head coach, and he shares a strong mutual connection with many inside Utah's front office, including Danny Ainge. Love seems to be at peace with where he is, which is why no change is expected," Siegel wrote.
So, pending any surprises, and we can't necessarily rule out a trade if the Jazz decide to make one (Love's contract could be used as salary fodder), he will likely stay in Utah. Siegel didn't confirm this or even hint at it, but it sounds like Love may stick around past this season should he and the Jazz decide as such.
There's no downside to keeping Love an extra year or two
A young team with loads of potential values positive influences in the locker room in their early days, and Love wants to be just that in Utah, it seems. He may not be able to give them much when he takes the floor, but being a good soldier and a good example could play a huge role in the Jazz's youth reaching their potential.
Because the West will feature plenty of playoff teams, some of which may not remain at that level for too much longer, there wouldn't be much hurt in keeping Love as the team looks to develop its young players. He's experienced it all throughout his NBA career, from making All-NBA teams to winning a title, so Jazz players have a lot to learn from him.
Coincidentally, for that same reason, Love may have a market for what he brings to the locker room. Luckily, he wouldn't cost much, and as Siegel confirmed, he's happy where he's at, so he may be content to stay with the team as long as he's paid at a moderate price.