Kevin Love

One could argue that with names such as “Love” and “Rose” serving as headliners across its lottery picks, the 2008 NBA Draft was one destined to be defined by selflessness and team-oriented playstyles. Still somewhat in the infancy stages in crafting his reputation of one of league history’s most effective length-of-the-court passers, Minnesota Timberwolves then-rookie Kevin Love offers a few of his most redeemable traits, first by ripping down a rebound. With his head on a swivel before his sneakers even touched the hardwood, Love zips a pinpoint outlet pass to a teammate who matches his energy flawlessly with a highlight-worthy double-clutch jam. Beginning to show glimpses of a team someday capable of hunting with the Western Conference elites, the Timberwolves clawed back from a 16-point first quarter hole, conquering the Chicago Bulls for an overtime victory on January 25, 2009. It would ultimately move them to 9-2 in January, marking them as one of the Association’s hottest teams. Love, who concluded 2008-09 as a sixth-place finisher in the Rookie of the Year voting, stood out amongst the reserves, contributing 19 points (on 8-of-11 shooting), 15 rebounds, and one assist.

Rookie Year