The Golden State Warriors are expecting to be major players in the Kevin Love trade talks prior to Thursday's NBA Draft. If the Minnesota Timberwolves are going to pull a deal off for the forward, they will aim to have it done in time to acquire another pick to potentially draft his replacement. The Warriors and Timberwolves have been involved in talks throughout the weekend, but a deal has stalled thanks to Klay Thompson.
According to ESPN.com, Thompson is the key to the Love deal. The Warriors have been hesitant to part with the young shooting guard, but the Timberwolves will not accept a deal that he is not involved in. NBA sources are describing the negotiations as an "organizational split" where half are ok with dealing Thompson and the others believe the guard is too valuable for the future.
It was originally reported that the deal for Love consisted of David Lee, Thompson and first-round draft picks. However, team consultant Jerry West and head coach Steve Kerr have a difference in opinions over the value of Thompson and the draft pick in exchange for Love. While Love is being regarded as the best player potentially available this offseason, some members of the Warriors front office believe he is not worth giving up young talent for.
The Los Angeles Lakers are certainly hoping that the Warriors' deal for Love fails so that they can then join the race for the forward. The Los Angeles Times is reporting that the Lakers are willing to part with their No. 7 pick in hopes that they can then work out a three-team trade to acquire Thompson. Los Angeles lacks the assets to land a trade for Love, but could acquire the guard by getting involved with Golden State.
The Lakers must decide if it is worth giving up their first-round pick for Thompson rather than drafting someone. With Joel Embiid's stock plummeting following a foot injury, the Lakers might not have much interest in another prospect if they feel they can land Thompson instead. The team will continue to seek out trades that could involve draft picks and point guard Steve Nash as the Lakers attempt to get rid of his $9.7 million salary.
Competition for Love is high. If the Warriors are serious about making a deal, they must part ways with Thompson. If not, the Timberwolves have at least five to six other teams waiting in the wings, ready to make a trade prior to the NBA Draft.
