The Golden State Warriors were considered the favorites to land a trade for Kevin Love prior to the NBA Draft. They had the young assets and picks to win over the Minnesota Timberwolves. However, that appears to no longer be the case. The Warriors have taken their best young asset off the table in trade negotiations, ending their chances of landing Love this offseason.
Golden State and the Timberwolves began negotiations over the weekend for Love as many NBA sources predicted a deal could happen before Thursday's draft as the Warriors were also offering up a draft pick in the trade package. However, negotiations have ended after the Warriors pulled Klay Thompson out of any possible deals. According to Boston Globe reporter Baxter Holmes, Thompson is not available for trading as the Warriors view him as one of the best young players to build around.
Thompson was the x-factor in the Love negotiations. ESPN reported the Warriors front office was divided on whether or not to deal the guard in exchange for the All-Star. New head coach Steve Kerr was against giving up Thompson and it appears his voice has been heard. Without Thompson, the Warriors trade packages leave a lot to be desired. Minnesota wanted David Lee and Thompson, but would now be forced to settle Harrison Barnes and Draymond Green instead.
With the Warriors out, the Chicago Bulls are emerging as the frontrunners for Love. While the team is currently chasing Carmelo Anthony, they are also planning on being active in the trade for the forward. According to ESPN's Chad Ford, the Bulls have offered Taj Gibson, Jimmy Butler and two draft picks in exchange for Love. They would also be willing to part with Tony Snell if it wins them the forward. The two draft picks would be the No. 16 and No. 19 in Thursday's first round which means this deal could get done in just a few days if Minnesota is serious.
The Bulls' deal could be the best Minnesota is offered. Right now, Love is not returning after 2015. The forward has made it known that he has no plans on signing contract extension and will hit free agency after the upcoming season. That would leave Minnesota receiving nothing in return for their franchise player. A trade now if the team's best option and the Bulls are putting up the best offer the help Minnesota rebuild in wake of Love's exit.