The Golden State Warriors thought a trade for Kevin Love was a done deal. Prior to the NBA Draft, the team was offering up David Lee and Harrison Barnes plus draft picks in hopes of landing the forward. Many speculated this had won over the Minnesota Timberwolves and Love would be sent on his way. However, the deal was never made and the Timberwolves were requesting a better package. With several teams involved, are the Warriors officially on the outside looking in?
The Warriors have no intentions of letting go of Klay Thompson. Golden State has deemed the small forward not available in trade talks. Most general managers believe he is not worth getting rid of because there is simply too much upside. Golden State likes the defense that Thompson brings to the table along with his ability to create shots for the team and Stephen Curry. As a result, the Warriors are officially in last place when it comes to getting Love.
According to the San Mercury News, Golden State is likely out of the Love trade race after their refusal to give up Thompson. Outside of Thompson, the Warriors just do not have the assets that Minnesota is looking for. They have no use for Barnes or Lee and that appears to be all the Warriors are willing to give up. The only chance Golden State has of landing Love is if he makes it through the season and becomes a free agent. Then Golden State is a favorite with their West Coast location and Love's friendship with Curry.
As of now, the Cleveland Cavaliers believe they are in the lead for Love despite the Chicago Bulls re-entering the race. The Bulls originally offered a trade package of Taj Gibson and Jimmy Butler. ESPN.com is reporting that those players are still available in a deal after the team failed to get Carmelo Anthony in free agency. The Bulls were prepared to give up a lot for Love prior to the NBA Draft and it is unclear if they are still considering doing the same now.
Cleveland still stands the best chance in a trade and they might not even have to involve Andrew Wiggins to get it done. The team is looking to partner with the Philadelphia 76ers in a three-team trade that would send Love to Cleveland, Dion Waiters to Philadelphia and Thaddeus Young to Minnesota. There is no telling what the time table is for this deal or one for Love in general, but teams will continue to join and eliminate themselves until the forward is moved.