NBA 2016 Rumors: Kevin Love Looking for Love in Boston? Nerlens Noel an Option for the Cavs
Cleveland May Be Unloading Part of the Big 3 Soon
Like he had been throughout the past few years, Kevin Love is once again on the trade market. The former Minnesota Timberwolves standout had regressed into an underwhelming name in the original Cleveland Cavaliers "Big 3", and it may not be a surprise if the Cavs want to look for better options.
Still, a change of scenery might be a good call for the 28-year-old forward who reportedly had a rocky relationship with team superstar LeBron James. With King James and the Cavs fulfilling their promise to Cleveland this year, it may be time for Love to test the waters in another jersey.
Big swap
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If the Cavs want to get rid of the weak links in their system, they would have to solve Love's issue on the court. The stretch forward does space the floor for the offense with his deep range but he is a liability on the defensive side.
The Wine and Gold were able to dominate when threes are involved, but the team always had a problem with shot-blocking and overall defensive efficiency.
Enter Nerlens Noel, the 6'11" versatile "bigman" from the Philadelphia 76ers. At this point, the Sixers would make a logical choice trading Noel; they already have a jam-packed frontcourt with Jahlil Okafor and the returning Joel Embiid.
In fact, there is already a rumored blockbuster trade in the works between Philly, Cleveland and the Boston Celtics. Danny Ainge will finally get his hands on Love, whom he had been vying for before the latter went to Cleveland. Meanwhile, the Sixers get Jaylen Brown, and the Cavaliers get Noel, Jonas Jerebko and Amir Johnson.
Valuable back-ups
For the Boston Celtics, getting Love could make or break their anticipated deep playoff run. He's another scoring option to relieve Isaiah Thomas. And since both he and Al Horford can stretch the defense, Brad Stevens could play a lot of interesting lineups.
The Sixers could also benefit from Jaylen Brown if he chooses to play shooting guard, supporting the passing mentality of fellow rookie Ben Simmons; but the greatest advantage would be to the Cavs' side.
Noel can provide the defensive prowess the team sorely lacks. Johnson can back Tristan Thompson on the frontcourt with his athletic rebounding and shot-blocking skill, and Jerebko can provide solid minutes while LeBron rests.
Overall, fans could expect a lot of intriguing changes in the three teams' lineups if the deal happens. For now, they would have to hold off their excitement, possibly until the trade deadline next year.
