CLEVELAND (AP) — The Cavaliers are missing another star.
Forward Kevin Love will be out at least six weeks — and maybe longer — after surgery on his left foot, another blow to a team in disarray in its first season following LeBron James’ departure.
Love, who injured his left big toe in Cleveland’s first exhibition game, had the operation on Friday in New York at the Hospital for Special Surgery. The team said his timeline to return to basketball activity will be updated in about six weeks, which means he could even longer.
The 30-year-old Love played in Cleveland’s first four games before the pain became intolerable. He underwent tests this week and said doctors were still trying to determine the best course of action. Love said the injury became so severe he was having trouble walking.
Love’s injury and extended recovery are going to make things even tougher on a team that is 1-7 and regrouping after coach Tyronn Lue was fired Sunday. Cleveland is trying to develop young players while staying competitive, but with Love out it’s going to be even harder.
Love signed a $120 million, four-year extension with the club last summer shortly after James left as a free agent.
Love has missed 45 games because of injuries over the past two seasons. The five-time All-Star averaged 19.0 points and 13.5 rebounds in the first four games.
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