NBA Rumors: Kevin Love Will Choose Miami Heat Over Sixers

On Saturday, Kevin Love reached a buyout with the Cleveland Cavaliers. As the veteran forward was set to hit the free agency market, several teams were expected to be in the market for his services. The Philadelphia 76ers were reportedly among those who were interested.

According to ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski, Love planned to talk to the Sixers once his free agency became official. However, it was clear that another Eastern Conference contender was in the market for his services, and they were viewed as the favorites to land Love.

As expected, Love is South Beach bound. According to Wojnarowski, Love plans to sign with the Miami Heat once he clears waivers this upcoming week.

After clearing waivers, Kevin Love plans to sign with the Miami Heat, his agent Jeff Schwartz of @Excelbasketball tells ESPN. pic.twitter.com/c1Ff4tLfKP
— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) February 19, 2023

Wojnarowski once again reiterated that Love “talked to the Sixers” after reaching a buyout, While he seemingly gave Philadelphia consideration, the Heat have an open roster spot to bring him on without any follow-up moves and also have more minutes to offer.

“Love’s expectation is that he can play a sizable role in the Heat’s frontcourt rotation as they push into the Eastern Conference Playoffs,” Wojnarowski tweeted.

Currently, the Heat are seventh in the East, with a 32-27 record. While the Sixers rank higher with a 38-19 record, which places them in third place, Love would’ve had to battle for minutes at both the four and five spot in the Sixers’ rotation.

With Love set to join the Heat, he'll link up with his third NBA franchise in 15 seasons.

Justin Grasso covers the Philadelphia 76ers for All76ers, a Sports Illustrated channel. You can follow him for live updates on Twitter: @JGrasso_.