Even with LeBron James entering his 23rd NBA season, there’s little sign he’s slowing down. At 40 years old, the Lakers star is still putting up numbers that most players can only dream of-and that makes Los Angeles a destination worth watching as the 2025-26 season approaches.
With Luka Doncic officially locked into an extension, the Lakers are going all-in. The message is clear: it’s title or bust. And now, a familiar name from LeBron’s past wants to join the ride.
Kevin Love is hoping for one last run with his old teammate. And he wants that run to happen in purple and gold.
According to ClutchPoints’ Brett Siegel, the five-time All-Star is eyeing a buyout from the Utah Jazz with hopes of signing with either the Lakers or Clippers. But make no mistake-Love’s priority seems to be reuniting with LeBron James.
The two shared the court for four seasons in Cleveland, winning the championship together in 2016 and creating one of the most memorable Finals comebacks in NBA history. Love has since bounced around the league and was recently involved in a three-team trade that sent him to Utah.
He’s now hoping that stint won’t last long.
From Cleveland to L.A.? Kevin Love Eyes a Homecoming-and a Shot at Another Ring
At 37, Love isn’t the same player he once was, but his veteran presence, floor spacing, and championship experience could still be valuable-especially on a roster loaded with stars but looking for glue guys who know how to win.
There’s just one catch: the money.
Both the Lakers and Clippers are bumping right up against the NBA’s second apron. The Lakers are only $1.1 million shy of the hard cap, according to Spotrac, while the Clippers have roughly the same room. That means Love would almost certainly need to accept a veteran’s minimum contract to make it work.
Still, the fit makes sense. Love played college ball at UCLA, grew up in Santa Monica, and has long expressed interest in finishing his career in L.A. And with the Lakers focused on a win-now mentality, bringing in someone LeBron trusts could be a subtle but smart addition.
Whether or not it happens comes down to timing, cap gymnastics-and whether Utah is willing to negotiate that buyout. But if it does, it’ll feel less like a reunion and more like a familiar chapter finding its perfect closing scene.
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