The Boston Celtics have fallen behind the Chicago Bulls and Cleveland Cavaliers in the Kevin Love race and are now making plans to move on without the Minnesota Timberwolves big man.

According to CSN New England, the Celtics are dropping out of the race for Love due to the increasing market for the All-Star.

“There's no waiving of the white flag just yet, but the Boston Celtics appear to be ready to move on from their pursuit of Minnesota star Kevin Love, league sources tell CSNNE.com.

"The more teams step up and show interest in Love, the further Boston falls in the pack," a source said on Wednesday. "Danny's a smart guy. He knows when to keep pushing for something and when to move on."

That's why the Celtics are reportedly among the clubs to express some interest in being a third team to help facilitate a trade involving Love to what one source said has become his "preferred" destination, Cleveland.”

The Cavaliers, Bulls and Golden State Warriors are the most likely trade partners for Minnesota and they all offer trade packages that trump the Celtics. The Cavaliers are offering Andrew Wiggins, the Warriors have Klay Thompson and the Bulls have a package of Taj Gibson, Nikola Mirotic, and Doug McDermott.

The Celtics had previously expressed interest in acquiring Love and pairing him with All-Star point guard Rajon Rondo, but it seems as if the Celtics are preparing for life without Love. The Celtics finished 25-57 last season and are looking to make a fast rebound back to the playoffs.

[CBS Sports]

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