Kevin Love has said that he expects to remain sidelined until after the turn of the year.
The Cleveland Cavaliers forward underwent toe surgery at the beginning of November and it was announced that he would spend six weeks out. The projected time frame would have him playing again by mid-December, however, the five-time All-Star doesn't reckon he will be able to to make a return to the court before next year.
On Tuesday, the player told ESPN's The Jump his time on the sidelines will extend past the six-week time mark as he expects to be in and out of a boot for the next two weeks.
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"There's just no telling at this time with the weight-bearing injury what it is going to be like moving forward, but I expect to be back sometime after the new year," he said.
Love has only played four games this season in which he averaged 19.0 points, 13.5 rebounds and 3.5 per contest. He had an operation done on his left big toe to correct an injury that had been bothering him since the preseason, affecting his ability to walk.
Love committed to a four-year deal during the summer, signing a $120 million contract. And his surgery couldn't have come at a worse time, with the Cavs winning a mere two games from their first 15 for the season.
The player was a huge part of the team's success over the last few years, but most of the plaudits went to LeBron James. And, while his return to action should spark a bit of a resurgence, it might be too late by then.
What This Means
The Cavaliers are very likely to keep on struggling in Love's absence but could find some relief if they could find a good trade piece for J.R. Smith, who has been made inactive as the team searches for a suitable deal.
Love, when healthy, is a huge threat and his size, coupled with his shooting ability, makes him very difficult to guard.
While his return will surely hand Cleveland a boost, they are going to need much more than that to save their season.