Kevin Love’s status ‘unclear’ for Game 1 of the NBA Finals

The Cleveland Cavaliers have advanced to their fourth consecutive NBA Finals with yet another matchup against the Golden State Warriors. The Cavaliers were able to accomplish that feat in Game 7 against the Boston Celtics. All without the service of All-Star forward Kevin Love due to being in the concussion protocol.

It appears that Cleveland may have to venture through Game 1 of the NBA Finals on Thursday with Love’s status for the contest still up in the air, according to ESPN.

All-Star forward Kevin Love remains in the concussion protocol. His status for Game 1 of the NBA Finals is unclear, Cleveland Cavaliers coach Tyronn Lue said Tuesday.

Love is dealing with an injury that he initially suffered in Game 6 of the Eastern Conference Finals. He took a blow after colliding with Celtics rookie forward Jayson Tatum. Since then, things have remained murky regarding determining a timetable for his return to the court in the playoffs. This type of injury varies in terms of how long the recovery period will take. Concussive injuries are typically evaluated on a case-by-case basis.

NBA Finals Futures

The 29-year-old has been a considerable part of the puzzle for the Cavaliers averaging 13.9 points and 10.0 rebounds in 17 games played, which includes recording five double-doubles and four 20-point performances. In his absence, Jeff Green has taken up a more significant role as he put up a productive outing in a spot start in Game 7 of the Eastern Conference Finals scoring 19 points with eight rebounds.

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If Love is unable to give it a go in Game 1, Green could get the call to start once again to help provide the Cleveland Cavaliers with a small-ball lineup to combat the Warriors.