Cavs Notes: Jarrett Allen, Donovan Mitchell, Roster Spot

The Cavaliers were surprised by power forward Kevin Love deciding he wanted a contract buyout, but seemed to understand.

Center Jarrett Allen even had some fun with it.

“I was told he was going for milk and cigarettes and he just never came back,” Allen said, via Chris Fedor of Cleveland.com.

That’s just how sudden Love’s departure was. It came after he had been benched for 12 games. He has since signed with the Heat, indicating they were the ideal team, as we relayed here.

“I don’t think any of us take it personally,” star guard Donovan Mitchell said, via Fedor. “I think his role in the past 10 or 11 games wasn’t what he wanted and as players we understand that. If that was his decision, then that’s fine. … I think that’s ultimately the best decision for him as a player and you want to respect that.”

• Mitchell went on to suggest that Love should be a good fit with the Heat. “I have no doubt in my mind that he is going to thrive in Miami,’ he said, via Fedor. “Ultimate professional. Wish him nothing but the best. We will see him in a few weeks. He’s a hell of a player, hell of a person and I’m appreciative of my time with him.”
• Coach J.B. Bickerstaff said Love was unhappy after being replaced by forward Dean Wade in the rotation. “Not a disruptive unhappy or combative unhappy,” Bickerstaff said. “Kevin wants to play. I understand that. He wants to be on the floor. He can help teams or help a team. He believes that. I think it’s that frustration of not being able to participate with your teammates that you could feel and you could sense.” 
• The Cavs intend to fill the vacancy created by Love’s departure, sources told Hoops Wire. It may not come until later, with about 10-15 games left in the regular season. Among those expected to be considered are veteran free-agent big men. (Full list.)

Jarrett Allen says he didn’t know Kevin Love wanted a buyout

“I was told he was going for milk and cigarettes and he just never came back.”

(Via @ChrisFedor ) pic.twitter.com/keRv3dDXdk

— NBACentral (@TheNBACentral) February 23, 2023