#4: Denver Nuggets

The Nuggets have expressed interest in Love a few different times in the past, so it would make sense if they once again showed interest in him. Love would be a great fit offensively with Nikola Jokic, as they are both skilled bigs who can stretch the floor and pass. However, they would struggle defensively and a deal for Love for Denver would likely have to involve Paul Millsap, who helps cover for a lot of Jokic’s defensive issues. He hasn’t had a great season thus far so Love would likely be an upgrade, but Denver has also gotten off to a fantastic start and likely don’t want to change their roster up.

As I mentioned, a deal centered around Millsap and Michael Porter and draft picks for Love would likely be a starting point. Millsap would be an expiring contract for the Cavs, so that could be appealing to them if they are starting a rebuild. Nobody knows what will happen with Porter, but he is the exact kind of player the Cavs should be looking to acquire in any Kevin Love deal.

The idea of Kevin Love joining up with the Nuggets sounds very appealing offensively, but it could have a negative effect on their defense, which is currently third in the league with a 101.4 defensive rating. Whether that is sustainable is the real question, but if their defense falls off and Millsap continues to struggle, this could be a trade the Nuggets investigate closer to the trade deadline.

Next Up: Trade Partner #5