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.