Kevin Love expects to be ready for start of season

Kevin Love has said that he expects to have recovered from shoulder surgery in time to play the first game of the 2015-16 NBA season.

The Cleveland Cavaliers power forward suffered a separated shoulder while playing in the playoffs in April, resulting in him being ruled out for four to six months following surgery.

The 26-year-old told ESPN: "I truly haven't even thought about it, but as I mentioned, I expect to be suiting up by game one of next year.

"I initially was very emotional about the play. I think everybody thinks, 'Oh, he's going to be able to come back, pop it right in,' but at the time when it happened, I kind of knew.

"Obviously I'd rather be out there playing, and that is, as a human being, from a human being aspect, is very tough. But as far as being here and supporting the guys and now being able to travel, it's a lot of fun, and I still feel like I'm a big part of this."

Love also insisted that he will remain with the team, despite reports that he will test free agency this summer.