When is 'likely' a code word for definitely? When Minnesota Timberwolves owner Glen Taylor uses it to describe the pending trade of All-Star power forward Kevin Love to the Cleveland Cavaliers.
According to Taylor the deal is expected to be consummated Aug. 23 or Aug. 24.
Reports of Love being sent to Cleveland in a package that includes 2014 No. 1 overall draft pick Andrew Wiggins has been circulating for weeks. Other teams have shown interest in Love - Golden State Warriors, Boston Celtics, Chicago Bulls - but none remain as possible destinations.
It's Cleveland and Taylor all but confirmed this Saturday during an interview in the St. Paul Pioneer Press.
"I'm saying it's most likely because Kevin has made it pretty clear that that's what he wants to do," Taylor said.
Timberwolves owner Gen Taylor calls Kevin Love trade ‘likely’. https://t.co/F486S7CSuC pic.twitter.com/CNs0LnuFYE
— NBC Sports (@NBCSports) August 3, 2014
It comes as no surprise that Taylor isn't being more definitive. NBA officials have instructed Minnesota and Cleveland representatives not to openly verify a trade until Wiggins becomes eligible to be traded on Aug. 23.
Love, who averaged 26.1 points and 12.5 rebounds last season, is scheduled to become an unrestricted free agent after the 2014-2015 season. And Love has made it clear that he does not intend to re-sign with Minnesota.
As a result, the Timberwolves have been entertaining trade offers. And of the teams willing to deal for Love, Cleveland's offer is most attractive to Minnesota.
In addition to Wiggins, the Cavs' offer reportedly includes 2013 top overall draft selection Anthony Bennett and a future first-round pick.
© Copyright 2024 Sports World News, All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.