Kevin Love's aching back has been given a clean bill of health.
An MRI on Love's back Monday revealed no structural damage, although the Cavaliers announced he will miss Wednesday's home game against the Minnesota Timberwolves as a precaution. Love did not travel with the team to Dallas for Monday's game against the Mavericks, instead remaining in Cleveland to have his back examined.
He left Sunday's game against Oklahoma City in the second quarter with back spasms and did not return. It was the second time this month his back has forced him out of a game early.
"We hope Kevin gets well, takes care of his body, because you know we're going to need him for the long haul," Tristan Thompson said. "Whatever he has to do to get 100 percent, that's the most important. Everyone wants to push through, but if you're hurt or you're not feeling right, get right because we need the big fella."
Richard Jefferson started Monday in Love's place.
Love's scoring average dipped under 20 points for the first time this season because he scored just one point against the Thunder before he was removed. Now he's averaging 19.9 points and 11 rebounds, earning his first All-Star appearance since arriving in Cleveland.
He still has about three weeks to get his back right before All-Star weekend, although he could always elect to use the time to rest. Love said the league has invited him to participate in the 3-point shootout during All-Star weekend Saturday night, but he hadn't yet decided whether to participate.
Getting his back straightened out for the remainder of the regular season and the postseason is clearly the priority.
LeBron James battled back issues two years ago, but has managed to strengthen and improve his problems through workouts and exercises. He's happy to help Love, but isn't sure whether the two injuries are at all similar.
"I don't know if it's a spasm, I don't know if it's vertebra, I don't know if it's a disc. It's all different types of ways a back can be hurt," James said. "Everybody's body is different. But it's nothing to play with. It's nothing to play with. It's a terrible feeling when your back is hurt. It just limits you more than anything.
"I know it's very frustrating for him because he puts in a lot of work. He's in the weight room all the time and he's doing his thing to keep his body in shape, then this is happening to him so it's very frustrating. Hopefully things get better for him soon."
