Kevin Love: Timberwolves | Contract | Jazz | Age

Kevin Love is one of the most recognizable NBA players of the past 15+ years — a five-time NBA All-Star, NBA champion, prolific scorer and rebounder, and one of the most versatile big men of his generation. From being drafted in 2008 to starring with the Minnesota Timberwolves and winning a title with the Cleveland Cavaliers, Love’s journey has been full of high points, shifts, and new chapters.

Today, Love is continuing his NBA career with the Utah Jazz, navigating the late stages of his career with a new team, contract details including a likely buyout, and an enduring impact on the league despite declining minutes. In this complete guide, we break down Kevin Love’s journey — from Timberwolves star to jazz veteran — his current contract and age, career highlights, and what his future might hold.

 Early Life and College

Kevin Wesley Love was born on September 7, 1988, in Santa Monica, California, to former NBA player Stan Love who played in the league in the 1970s. Love attended UCLA for one season, where he quickly became a standout power forward before declaring for the 2008 NBA Draft. His combination of size, shooting, rebounding, and passing made him one of the most coveted prospects in his class. 

NBA Draft and Early Career

In the 2008 NBA Draft, Love was selected 5th overall by the Memphis Grizzlies. However, he never played a game for Memphis — his draft rights were immediately traded to the Minnesota Timberwolves where he began his NBA journey. 

Timberwolves Breakout

Love quickly emerged as one of the league’s most dominant big men with Minnesota. He became known for his:

• Elite rebounding ability

• Three-point shooting range

• Double-double consistency

During his tenure with the Timberwolves, Love posted multiple seasons averaging a double-double — showcasing scoring and rebounding prowess rare for his size and position. This era established him as one of the league’s premier power forwards. 

Career Highlights and Achievements

Kevin Love’s list of achievements is extensive and includes:

• NBA Champion (2016) with the Cleveland Cavaliers

• Five NBA All-Star appearances

• NBA Most Improved Player (2011)

• NBA rebounding leader

• All-NBA Second Team selections

• NBA Three-Point Contest Champion (2012)

• Olympic Gold Medalist with Team USA

These accolades reflect a career that spans elite scoring, rebounding, leadership and championship pedigree — a legacy secured over long stretches with multiple teams. 

 Career Progression: Timberwolves to Cavaliers to Heat

Minnesota Timberwolves (2008–2014)

Love’s first six NBA seasons were with the Timberwolves, where he became the centerpiece of the franchise. Known for battling for every rebound and stretching defenses with his outside shooting, he developed a reputation as one of the league’s most unique big men. 

Cleveland Cavaliers (2014–2023)

In 2014, Love was traded to the Cleveland Cavaliers, pairing him with LeBron James and Kyrie Irving. This trio propelled the Cavaliers deep into the playoffs and ultimately to the 2016 NBA Championship, the franchise’s first in history. Love’s role wasn’t always glamorous in Cleveland — often sacrificing touches for team success — but his rebounding, defense, and spacing were critical. 

Miami Heat (2023–2025)

After nearly a decade in Cleveland, Love moved on to the Miami Heat where he served primarily as a veteran roster piece, mentor, and floor-spacing big forward. His role became more limited — featuring fewer minutes but still offering depth and experience to a gritty Heat squad. 

Current Chapter: Utah Jazz

In the 2025 offseason, Kevin Love was traded from the Miami Heat to the Utah Jazz as part of a three-team deal involving the Los Angeles Clippers. The Jazz also acquired Kyle Anderson and a draft pick in exchange for Norman Powell heading to Miami and John Collins to the Clippers. 

Why the Jazz Trade Matters

At 37, Love isn’t meant to be a frontline NBA star anymore, but his veteran presence is valuable for a Jazz roster filled with young talent. The Jazz initially acquired Love as part of contract matching — but discussions about his future have included potential leadership roles or even buyout scenarios. 

Contrary to some early buyout speculation, reports suggest Love is committed to staying with the Jazz, influenced by personal and family reasons while also offering mentorship to younger players. 

 Current Contract Details

As of the 2025–26 NBA season, Kevin Love is under contract with the Utah Jazz on a two-year deal worth approximately $8 million. His annual earnings are:

• 2024–25: $3.85M

• 2025–26: $4.15M

This contract was signed using his early bird rights. Love is set to become an unrestricted free agent in 2026 unless another extension or buyout occurs. 

Buyout Possibility

There have been multiple reports that a buyout could occur between Love and the Jazz before or during the upcoming season, given his limited playing time and veteran status. However, at the time of the latest reporting, no official buyout has been finalized. 

2025 Stats Snapshot

In the 2024–25 season with Miami prior to joining Utah, Kevin Love played 23 games, averaging:

• 5.3 points per game

• 4.1 rebounds per game

• Approximately 11 minutes per contest

These statistics reflect a reduced role driven by age, team needs, and the emergence of other rotation players. 

Injuries & Challenges

As Love has aged, injuries and workload management have become more prominent. While once an iron-man type who played heavy minutes, recent seasons have seen him used sparingly for rest, situational matchups, and leadership off the bench.

His decline in physical production is natural given his age but his basketball IQ, spacing ability and experience remain assets. 

Age and Longevity

Kevin Love was born on September 7, 1988, making him 37 years old as of 2025. At this stage of his career, Love has transitioned from perennial All-Star to veteran leader, adapting his game to fit team needs and evolving roles while staying active in the NBA. 

 Legacy and Impact

Kevin Love’s legacy extends well beyond his current box scores:

Championship and Clutch Moments

• 2016 NBA Champion — integral role alongside LeBron James.

• Unselfish playmaking — drew defenses, opened lanes, and kept offenses flowing.

Pioneering Big Men Roles

Love helped redefine the power forward position with his ability to hit three-pointers and make plays from the post and beyond the arc.

Mentorship

Even late in his career, Love is valued for helping younger teammates develop on-court skills and off-court professionalism.

Future Outlook

As of late 2025, Kevin Love’s future is up in the air:

• Possible Jazz buyout or trade remains a topic of speculation. 

• Free agency after 2026 will open options for him to sign with another team — potentially a contender seeking veteran experience.

• Retirement considerations could also emerge given age and diminished playing time.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

 How old is Kevin Love?

Kevin Love is 37 years old as of 2025. He was born on September 7, 1988. 

What teams has Kevin Love played for?

Love has played for:

• Minnesota Timberwolves

• Cleveland Cavaliers

• Miami Heat

• Utah Jazz

What is Kevin Love’s current contract?

Love is under a 2-year, ~$8M contract with the Utah Jazz, earning $4.15M in the 2025-26 season. 

What was Kevin Love’s role last season?

In the 2024–25 season, Love averaged 5.3 ppg and 4.1 rpg in limited minutes with the Miami Heat. 

 Has Kevin Love won an NBA championship?

Yes — Kevin Love won an NBA championship in 2016 with the Cleveland Cavaliers. 

 Is Love likely to be bought out by the Jazz?

There have been reports that a buyout is possible, but no official agreement had been confirmed as of the latest updates. 

When will Kevin Love become a free agent?

Love is set to become an unrestricted free agent in 2026 unless re-signed by the Jazz or another team.