Kevin Love, who missed 21 games and a roster overhaul while recovering from a broken hand, returned to the hardwood on Monday night in a different role than any he has had since joining the Cavs as a big-time free agent in 2015. Back then, he was the third leg of a Big Three that hoped to bring championship glory to Cleveland.
On Monday, Love scored 18 points in his return in his new role as hero.
Kevin Love Returns From Injury! Cavaliers vs Bucks
Kevin Love Returns From Injury! Cavaliers’ Kevin Love to Play vs. Bucks After Missing 21 Games with Hand Injury. Cleveland Cavaliers vs Milwaukee Bucks March 19, 2018 Note N Warning:I have My Own Business,So Never Take My Instant Highlights To Yourself Youtube Page DISCLAIMER – All clips property of the NBA.
With coach Tyronn Lue taking a leave of absence to deal with his failing health, Cleveland has now lost their championship coach at the worst time. Another blow in a season that has tested the will, resilience and greatness of LeBron James like no other in recent memory.
Just two weeks after Love bravely admitted to suffering from panic attacks and mental health issues, Love returned to give Milwaukee the business. Fortunately, with Love back on the floor, creating mismatches, stroking the three and providing LeBron with another deft shooter to kick out to, Clevelands offense looked much improved in defeating the Milwaukee Bucks 124-117.
Love was on his Clark Kent swag when he entered the building for his return.
NBA on Twitter
Kevin Love arrives for his return to action for the @Cavs! 7pm/et @ESPNNBA https://t.co/WnLJcXiUnb
The veteran’s openness about his mental health touched the hearts of fans and millions of people suffering from the same ills. His efforts over the past few seasons are now looked upon in a slightly different light. Maybe, under the circumstances, he was giving more than he had rather than underachieving as he was often accused of doing.
Love’s taken his share of criticism from media and fans for his passiveness on the court and his struggle to find a consistent offensive rhythm during his time in Ohio. Since the day Love arrived in Cleveland, there were rumors of him being traded, opting out, unhappy and underutilized.
He gutted through it and got a championship in 2016 playing under the restrictive reign of King James. Kyrie Irving wasnt having it, but Love has chosen to deal with it and if anything, with all of the moving parts on Cleveland, his presence has provided LeBron with security.
NBA on Twitter
40 points, 12 rebounds & 10 assists for @KingJames 18 points & 7 boards for @kevinlove #AllForOne
Three days ago LeBron expressed just how much he misses playing alongside another All-Star.
“It’s been a long time since I haven’t played with another All-Star on my team,” James told ESPN. “So, having [Love] out has been very challenging for all of us. Kev has a big usage rate on our team. He’ll get the ball when things get tight, chaotic; we can throw it to him in the low post and get some things going.”
I don’t know if we have ever heard LeBron genuinely say anything like that about Love before.
The phrase “you dont know what you got till its gone” applies to the relationship between Kevin Love, King James and the city of Cleveland. At least, Love’s finally getting appreciated. It only took four years.
