Since arriving with the Utah Jazz through the three-team trade that sent Norman Powell to the Miami Heat and John Collins to the Los Angeles Clippers, Kevin Love has been the subject of constant buyout speculation.
That speculation appears to be turning into reality, as recent reports suggest Love is actively working toward an exit.
With trade options limited given his contract situation, a buyout represents the most viable path forward.
The question now centers on Love’s next destination, and an answer to that could emerge soon.
“Word around the league surrounding Love is that he wants to end up in Los Angeles, sources said. There were some rumors that Love would want to go to New York, although there doesn’t seem to be much interest brewing from the Knicks,” Brett Siegel of Cluth Points said, via NBACentral.
Kevin Love reportedly wants to end up in Los Angeles, per @BrettSiegelNBA
“Word around the league surrounding Love is that he wants to end up in Los Angeles, sources said. There were some rumors that Love would want to go to New York, although there doesn't seem to be much… pic.twitter.com/RpnVihAjzw
— NBACentral (@TheDunkCentral) August 5, 2025
Los Angeles makes perfect sense for Love on multiple levels. The Santa Monica, California native and UCLA product has deep roots in the area.
While Siegel doesn’t specify which L.A. franchise might pursue Love, his history with LeBron James creates an obvious connection to the Lakers.
The two spent four seasons together in Cleveland and won its only NBA championship in 2016. That relationship could prove decisive in Love’s decision.
However, the Lakers face financial constraints that complicate any potential signing.
The team is hard-capped at the first apron, which prevents it from adding Love without clearing salary.
Moving players like Dalton Knecht or Maxi Kleber could create the necessary space, and those moves are realistic given the relatively modest amounts involved.
Love brings specific skills that could benefit the Lakers. His outside shooting and rebounding ability address areas where they lack depth.
The team also has no reliable stretch big on the roster.
Though his defensive limitations are well-documented at this stage of his career, the Lakers may value his veteran presence more than his on-court production.
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