Kevin Love is the talk of the NBA. The forward is one of the more high-profile players set to hit free agency in 2015 and currently on a losing roster, many have wondered what his next move would be. The picture became more clear when it was reported that Love had no desire of re-signing with the Minnesota Timberwolves, making a trade the likely outcome this summer. Now, Love is addressing those rumors and not denying they are true.
While making an appearance on ESPN's Sport's Nation, Love was naturally asked about the entire story and his plans with Minnesota. The forward said, "You know, my agent is handling everything at this point, and I'm hoping everything works out for all parties involved." There was no "I am a Timberwolve" type of statement. He did not say he loved Minnesota. He simply noted that his agent was currently working everything out. Read between the lines and it is clear that Love wants out as soon as possible.
One thing Love did deny was that he had a wishlist of teams that he hoped would trade for or sign him in the near future. The forward was recently spotted in Boston with Rajon Rondo. There was speculation that he was favoring the Los Angeles Lakers. The forward said right now all options are open.
"I don't really have a wishlist, I just want to win, wherever that may be," Love said. "One of the 30 teams; (I) want to play for a great coach, great teammates ... it's not about just one player. It's not about myself, it's about a whole team."
This is music to every team's ears. Right now, the Love sweepstakes is getting crowded. Every team in the league is attempting to figure out how to acquire the forward and what trade package to offer to make it happen. The Cleveland Cavaliers are reportedly in the best situation to make the deal considering they do have the No. 1 overall pick and some assets they can get rid of. Love said the rumors of the Cavaliers acquiring him certainly are not crazy.
"I don't think the Cleveland [trade rumors] are outlandish at all," Love said.
Dan Gilbert will take this a run. As Cleveland prepares to make their pitch to LeBron James, could a trade for Love be easier to come by? The team would likely have to offer up players like Dion Waiters or Tristan Thompson to make it happen, plus the draft pick. Love is open to the idea it seems.
