Kevin Love Returns to Cleveland: A Mentor’s Journey with Miami Heat

CLEVELAND, Ohio – Returning to Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse for the first time since his 2023 buyout, Kevin Love‘s role with the Miami Heat has transformed significantly. The 36-year-old has embraced a mentorship position, a stark contrast to his reluctance to accept such a role two years ago with the Cleveland Cavaliers.

As the Heat visited Cleveland on March 5, Love reflected on his evolution. “I wasn’t ready yet to be a part-time player at age 34, but that has changed now that I’m 36,” Love shared. He emphasized his commitment to contributing to the team, whether on the court or as a guiding presence for younger players. “I want to keep pouring into this team and doing whatever I can,” he said.

This season, Love has participated in 20 games, averaging 5.3 points, 4.3 rebounds, and 1.0 assists in 11 minutes per contest. However, he has only seen action in five of the last 27 games, logging a mere 36 minutes since January 1. Despite limited playing time, flashes of his former All-Star talent have emerged, showcasing why he has remained in the league for 17 years.

During Monday’s game against the Washington Wizards, Love contributed nine rebounds in just 12 minutes, filling the shoes of the veteran leadership role once occupied by a retired teammate. He aims to create an encouraging environment for the Heat’s roster. “I’m trying to create a really great ecosystem here where we can celebrate each other, celebrate small wins, and build guys up,” Love explained.

With one season left on his contract at $4.2 million, Love’s guidance is expected to be important for the Heat moving forward. “I let them come to me about stuff non-basketball related,” he noted. Love’s approach combines humor with serious discussions, steering conversations in numerous directions—all to keep teammates engaged and focused.

Returning to Cleveland holds emotional significance for Love, who missed both matchups against the Cavaliers last season due to injury and personal reasons. He expressed fondness for the franchise and city, stating, “I have so much love for that organization and city and Ohio. When you go on a Finals run with special players, that will always be a part of you. I’ll probably go home and look at my ring and reflect a little bit.”

Meanwhile, Heat rookie Pelle Larsson made headlines by stepping up significantly, scoring a career-high 16 points in nearly 28 minutes during the same game, helping Miami overcome a shorthanded roster. Coach Erik Spoelstra praised Larsson’s energy and contributions, indicating that his increased playing time could accelerate his development, especially with key players sidelined.

“He brought energy. He brought that extra oomph that carried over to everybody else,” Spoelstra said. The Heat are focusing on building Larsson’s skills as he continues to develop in his role after being the 44th pick in the previous year’s draft.