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The Los Angeles Lakers pursuit of Kevin Love may be over before free agency even begins. According a recent report from Fox Sports' Sam Amico, Love has informed the Cavaliers that he plans to return next season. The Lakers have been rumored to be gearing up to make a run at Love for years, hoping that his UCLA-roots would draw him back to Southern California.
The Lakers find themselves in dire need of bigs after selecting guard D'Angelo Russel in the draft, and Love is one of the best in the league. While he had something of a down season trying to fit in alongside LeBron James and is recovering from a shoulder injury the Lakers still will have a max contract ready and waiting for him on July 1st. If Love truly has informed Cleveland that they needn't worry, then the Lakers will have to shift their focus elsewhere.
Fortunately for LA there are a number of free agent bigs on the market this summer, including LaMarcus Aldridge, who is said to be Mitch Kupchak's main priority. The Lakers will also meet with Clippers free agent DeAndre Jordan, who would arguably be the best fit alongside the young core of Russell, Jordan Clarkson, and Julius Randle. Of course it also doesn't hurt that convincing Jordan to switch locker rooms would also weaken a major rival.
The Lakers will also consider Tyson Chandler, Greg Monroe, Tobias Harris, Brook Lopez, and Robin Lopez. While none are a sure thing to sign, with the number of intriguing bigs available Lakers fans are cautiously optimistic that Kupchak will be able to land at least one solid free agent this summer.
Expect to hear the Lakers connected to a number of free agents this year and for the rumors to keep flying. Free agency begins on July 1st.
Follow Trevor Lane on Twitter @16ringsNBA