Veteran forward Kevin Love has surfaced as a likely buyout candidate following his trade to the Utah Jazz, according to NBA insider Jake Fischer.
The 36-year-old was moved as part of a three-team deal involving the Miami Heat and Los Angeles Clippers.
In the trade, Miami acquired Norman Powell to strengthen its backcourt, while the Clippers landed John Collins. Utah received Love, Kyle Anderson, and a 2027 second-round pick from Los Angeles, positioning them to continue their rebuilding strategy.
Love is in the final season of a two-year, $8 million contract. Given Utah’s youth movement and long-term focus, the front office is expected to consider a buyout agreement, which would allow him to join a contender.
Over his 17-year NBA career, Love has averaged 16.2 points and 10 rebounds per game across 952 appearances. He played sparingly last season in Miami, posting 5.3 points and 4.1 rebounds in just under 11 minutes per contest.
Love’s playoff experience remains a valuable asset, as he has competed in 88 postseason games and won an NBA championship with the Cleveland Cavaliers in 2016. His ability to stretch the floor and rebound could attract interest from playoff-bound teams seeking veteran depth.
Meanwhile, Utah’s acquisition of younger players and draft assets aligns with its current roster-building philosophy. Moving on from Love would free up minutes for their developing frontcourt players while offering the veteran a chance to compete elsewhere.
