Source: Kevin Love optimistic he will play Game 3 of NBA Finals

— -- Kevin Love did not participate in the Cleveland Cavaliers' practice Tuesday, but a source told ESPN's Dave McMenamin that the star forward is optimistic about his chances of playing in Game 3 of the NBA Finals.

Love is in the NBA's concussion protocol after being hit in the back of the head Sunday during Cleveland's loss to the Golden State Warriors in Game 2.

Love was not on the floor for the beginning of Tuesday's practice. He eventually joined his teammates, but he did not take part in the workouts.

The Cavaliers officially listed Love as questionable for Game 3 later Tuesday.

Game 3 is Wednesday night in Cleveland. The Cavaliers face a 2-0 series deficit after back-to-back blowout losses at Golden State.

There are several steps that the NBA requires a concussed player to complete before he returns to the court, including tests of physical exertion, agility work and noncontact team drills.

Golden State's Harrison Barnes collided with Love as the two went for an offensive rebound with five minutes remaining in the second quarter Sunday. No foul was called on the play.

In the third quarter, Love became disoriented and displayed concussion symptoms. He was taken to the locker room and diagnosed with a concussion.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.