Kevin Love told Sports Headliners on Sunday that despite the frustrations of his rookie season he doesn’t regret not staying at UCLA where last season as a freshman he was a first team All-American and led the Bruins to the Final Four.
“Nah, I never second guess myself, no matter what I do,” Love said. “Even something as simple as whether it’s taking a jump shot, or going to the hole. No, I feel like I made the right decision. Especially now.”
Love’s welcome to the NBA in early games included frequently having his shot blocked near the basket. His medium range jump shot seemingly had stayed at UCLA where he also had success with three pointers. Even free throws were often clank, not swish. Defending bigger, more experienced players was a challenge, too.
But so far in 2009 his play has improved like a New Year’s resolution. In games since the first of the year he is averaging 12.1 points and 10.1 rebounds, with several double-double games including 19 points and 15 rebounds on Sunday in a win over Chicago. Love, who is averaging about 8.8 points and 8.4 rebounds per game, has helped the Wolves win 10 of 12 games in January.
The 20-year-old forward, who seems generously listed at 6-10, said his comfort in being a pro now versus earlier is much better. Has he turned a page permanently in the New Year?
“I definitely hope so,” he said. “I felt like I hit the rookie wall a little bit early just trying to figure (out) everything. One thing I can always do is rebound and play defense. …My confidence is high right now and hopefully I can keep it there.”
Love said his work ethic and desire to improve has been in place. He’s been coming in to improve his basketball skills and body even on days off. “I feel like hard work breeds confidence,” he said.
Love wants to finish his rookie season averaging a double-double in points and rebounds. Talk with him about goals, though, and the conversation goes quickly to the team. The Wolves have 16 wins after winning just 22 games all of last season. “By the end of the season I think we can be very good,” he said. “I am not going to put a number on how many games we’ll win. By next season we’re gonna have a great group and we’re gonna know what we’re capable of.”