Following a buyout with the Cleveland Cavaliers around the midpoint of last season, Miami Heat forward Kevin Love signed a deal for the remainder of the year.
Love made sure to begin understanding the competitive Heat culture and bonding with the fellow veterans on the team. Specifically signaling out Jimmy Butler, Bam Adebayo, and Udonis Haslem.
“I think more than anything, I looked to veterans. I feel like I always have since I came into the league, and now being one, it really wasn’t any different. I wanted to make sure that I connected with Bam, I connected with Jimmy, Tyler. I had already known because we have the same agent, but specifically Udonis, UD, cap. He’s one that I really wanted to make sure that I spoke with, you know, kind of understood how things have evolved this season, kind of get me up to date, and kinda understand how the Miami Heat operate.
At 35 years old, Love has become a veteran leader himself. In a few seasons, it is possible to see him take on a Haslem-style role where he acts as a leader and mentor for younger players.
Although, as of now, Love is expected to start at power forward for the Heat next season.