Cavaliers’ Kevin Love suffers a broken right thumb

Big Man Reserve Riders Kevin Love suffered a hairline fracture of his right thumb, reports Athletic’s Shams Charania. Charania adds that the injured figure will undergo daily assessments, which at least suggests it may not be a long-term illness.

The 34-year-old, a former five-time All-Star, has settled well into a backup role for the 9-6 Cavaliers so far this season, behind the starting forward. Evan Mobley and center Shank Allen.

Over 15 healthy games, the 6-foot-10 UCLA forward/center is averaging 11.3 points per game on .425/.409/.861 shooting ranges. He is also shooting 7.4 rebounds and 2.6 assists per game.

If Love should run out of time, another longtime league veteran, 7-foot backup center Robin Lopez, could be backed up for additional relief minutes.

Kelsey Russo Athletics reported Love injured his thumb during the third quarter of Friday night’s 132-122 overtime win over the Hornets. Russo noted that Love is considered doubtful to face the Heat on Sunday.