The Cavaliers really didn't want to lose their Love (toniiiiiiiight)

By WILL LAWS
FindTheBest

Kevin's on a vacation far away

Come around and talk it over

So many things LeBron wants to say

You know he likes his teams a littlebitolder

Blatt just wants to use his Love tonight

They don't wanna lose their Love tonight

LeBron ain't got many friends left to talk to

Who will be around when they're in trouble?

You know J.R. would do anything to shoot

Love might sign with L.A., but it's undercover

Blatt just wants to use his Love tonight

They don't wanna lose their Love tonight

...

Kevin Love's impact on the Cavaliers hasn't been what most NBA fans were expecting coming into this season. In fact, it was undoubtedly his worst statistical campaign since becoming a full-time starter with Minnesota in 2010-11. All the critics labeling Love as a "good stats/bad team" guy with the Timberwolves were somewhat validated. The former All-Star was essentially reduced to being a stretch-4 in Cleveland's offense.

It's possible, however, that Love has gone from being overrated to being one of the most underrated players in the league. Because even though his role was merely that of a stretch-4 this season, he was a darn good one - an invaluable part of this Cavaliers team.

That was especially clear in their first-round matchup against the Celtics. Cleveland's offense was unstoppable with Love on the floor, racking up 120.5 points per 100 possessions. That would qualify for the best mark in the league, by far. When Love sat, the Cavs scored just 97.2 points per 100 possessions – which would rank as the third-worst mark, ahead of only the dreadful Knicks and 76ers. That's a huge difference.

He also still managed to lead Cleveland in rebounding during the regular season despite spending more time away from the rim than he ever had before.

Cleveland Cavaliers 2014 Rebound Distribution PointAfter

With three grueling playoff series between them and an NBA championship, the Cavs really didn't want to lose Love for the remainder of the playoffs. They have no other true power forward on the roster, so coach David Blatt might have no choice but to shift LeBron to that position.

Will the King be able to hold court without Love? We're about to find out.