Cavaliers intend to keep Kevin Love if LeBron James leaves; interested in re-signing Jeff Green

CLEVELAND, Ohio -- The Cavaliers do not intend to trade Kevin Love if they lose LeBron James in free agency this summer, and would rather try to make the playoffs than immediately begin rebuilding without their iconic star. Sources told cleveland.com this week that the Cavs would not trade Love, a five-time All-Star who is owed about $50 million over the next two seasons, if James leaves as a free agent. ESPN reported earlier this month that the team had interest in keeping Love, regardless of what happens with James. The Cavs could trade Kyle Korver, who is 37 and has a favorable contract ($7.6 million next season; a small portion of his $7.5 million salary for 2019-20 guaranteed). They could potentially waive George Hill and stretch his $19 million salary over the next several seasons, though he could also serve as a veteran mentor/backup/partner to rookie Collin Sexton.

LeBron James opts out of Cavaliers contract to become unrestricted free agent | First Take | ESPN

Cris Carter reveals why LeBron James is now going to LA Lakers | NBA | FIRST THINGS FIRST- Duration: 10:19. First Things First: Cris Carter and Nick Wright718,842 views

Sources: LeBron James to decline $35.6M player option, will enter free agency

according to Cleveland Cavaliers star LeBron James will decline his $35.6 million player option for the 2018-19 season and will be an unrestricted free agent, league sources told Yahoo Sports. James faced Friday's deadline to inform the Cavaliers of his decision but had always planned to opt out of his deal, league sources said. LeBron James averaged 27.5 points, 9.1 assists and 8.7 rebounds this past season. (AP)James, a four-time NBA MVP, three-time champion and 14-time All-Star, will enter free agency with the Cavaliers, Los Angeles Lakers and Philadelphia 76ers as his leading suitors. James' decision to decline the option gives him maximum flexibility in free agency.

This content may collect you by Max Nolan