Kevin Love: All star forward reportedly headed to Cavs; Warriors could disprupt deal
The Cleveland Cavaliers have agreed to acquire all-star power forward Kevin Love from the Minnesota Timberwolves for 2014 first-round pick Andrew Wiggins, 2013 first-round pick Anthony Bennett, and a protected 2015 first-round pick, according to Yahoo Sports citing league sources. Yahoo Sports also reports, per sources, Love has agreed to opt out of his current contract after 2015 and sign a five year, $120 million with the Cavs.
The trade cannot be officially completed until August 23 since the Cavs are not allowed to move Wiggins for 30 days after signing him.
If this deal gets done, it would give the Cavs a so-called 'Big 3' of LeBron James, Love and Kyrie Irving.
Many analysts believe the driving force behind this deal is James. Although the four-time MVP said he understands this team won't win right away, the Cavs know James still wants to win as soon as possible. Furthermore, LeBron only signed a two-year deal with the team and it's possible they want to do everything they can to make sure he stays after 2016.
Prior to this report, there was speculation the Wolves were also looking to trade Love to either the Chicago Bulls or the Golden State Warriors. According to rumors the Wolves were looking for players such as Taj Gibson, Jimmy Butler, and or Nikola Mirotic from the Bulls. However, talks between the two eventually died down.
Before there were reports about talks between the Cavs and Wolves, the news surrounding Kevin Love included the Golden State Warriors. According to reports the Wolves were looking to acquire both David Lee and Klay Thompson from the Warriors for Love. However, the Warriors did not want to part with Thompson.
ESPN's Marc Stein mentioned on "SportsCenter" Thursday that, "theoretically," the only thing that may put a wrench in the potential Cavs/Wolves deal is Thompson. It's possible if the Warriors decide they want to give up the 23-year old sharp shooter - in addition to David Lee and a couple other players or a pick - the Wolves may deal Love to Golden State. However, Stein believes even if the Warriors change their mind on Thompson, Love would still be heading to Cleveland.
