Who would need to go to Cleveland for this to even work?
So, in reality, there are three big obstacles between Love coming to PDX.
The first is Olshey and his unwillingness to sacrifice a lot for a possible stat. Second, the Cavaliers don’t seem like sellers at this trade deadline; they will be looking to improve upon their core. And, of course, there is the elephant in the room of Love’s want of donning a Blazers jersey.
But, a move like this is still possible. Portland has enough assets, and if Olshey has enough motivation and need for a player like Love, he could pick up the phone and make a call. The main player most people seem to think needs to go to Cleveland is McCollum. I believe the trade can be pulled off with McCollum staying put, and that would be the best for Portland.
Would Love really come home?
This is where the fun really begins. Especially if you believe Love will actually improve Portland if he were to be traded. Throw my name into that category of people, because Love in PDX would make a huge impact.
In reality, trading for a current All-Star seems to be a no-brainer. Love is no exception, and he would positively impact any team in the league. In 46 games this season (all starts), Love is averaging 18.2 points, 9.5 rebounds, and almost 2 assists per game on 46% shooting (39% behind the arc).
Those numbers aren’t even as good across the board as Love’s career averages. A four-headed monster, with exceptional offensive flow, would be formed in Rip City. That’s without trading Nurkic, too, which is also tough to pull off. How can it be done?