Kevin Love Wants to Stay With Utah Jazz

Veteran forward says he'd re-sign with Utah 'in an instant'

Apr. 14, 2026 at 8:35pm

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting the dynamic movements of a basketball player in shades of navy, gold, and white, representing the energy and potential of the Utah Jazz organization.Kevin Love's veteran presence and leadership could be invaluable for the rebuilding Utah Jazz, even if his on-court role is limited.Salt Lake City Today

Veteran forward Kevin Love, who was traded to the Utah Jazz last summer, has made it clear he wants to re-sign with the team in free agency this offseason. Love praised the Jazz organization and said he's had a 'truly great experience' in Utah, adding that he and fellow big man Jusuf Nurkic 'would be back here in an instant'.

Why it matters

Love's potential return would provide valuable veteran leadership and experience to the Jazz's young core as they continue their rebuild. The 18-year NBA veteran could play a mentorship role even if his on-court minutes are limited.

The details

Love, 37, played in 37 games for the Jazz this past season, averaging 6.7 points, 5 rebounds and 1.8 assists in just over 15 minutes per game. While his production has declined in the latter stages of his career, Love's locker room presence and basketball IQ remain assets for a team looking to develop its young talent.

  • Love was traded to the Jazz from the Miami Heat last summer.
  • The 2026 NBA free agency period begins in July.

The players

Kevin Love

A 37-year-old veteran forward who was traded to the Utah Jazz last summer after spending the majority of his career with the Cleveland Cavaliers and Miami Heat.

Jusuf Nurkic

A veteran big man who is also set to hit free agency this offseason after playing a reduced role for the Jazz in 2025-26.

Austin Ainge

The Jazz's president of basketball operations.

Will Hardy

The Jazz's head coach.

Justin Zanik

The Jazz's general manager.

Ryan Smith

The Jazz's owner.

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What they’re saying

“I was very surprised and welcomed with open arms by everyone. I've had a truly great experience here, and that has remained throughout the course of this year, even the circumstances we find ourselves in.”

— Kevin Love, Jazz forward

“[Me and Jusuf Nurkic] would be back here in an instant.”

— Kevin Love, Jazz forward

What’s next

The Jazz will have to decide whether to re-sign Love and Nurkic this offseason as they continue their rebuild around their young core.

The takeaway

Kevin Love's comments show he has embraced his role as a veteran leader in Utah and wants to continue mentoring the Jazz's young players, even if his on-court minutes are limited going forward.