Cleveland Cavaliers insider Bob Finnan is now reporting that the Cavs would include Andrew Wiggins in a possible deal for Timberwolves PF Kevin Love. Well that's a game changer. They would appear to be the favorite now if the T-Wolves do what they say they won't, and trade the All-Star.
Here's what the Top 3 Trade Offers could (realistically according to me) be.
Don't worry about money for the purposes of this exercise. Minnesota could toss in Kevin Martin or whatever else to make it work. We won't get into trade exceptions and non-guaranteed contracts here.
1. Cleveland Cavaliers
Andrew Wiggins, Anthony Bennett, Anderson Varejao
That's the last TWO #1 overall picks and a double-double guy for a player who WILL leave in a year. You have to do that if you're Flip Saunders. Cleveland probably wouldn't want to give up Varejao, but Love is worth it.
2. Golden State Warriors
Klay Thompson, David Lee
They say now they won't deal Klay, but this could change. Curry and Love with pieces like Barnes and Bogut is intriguing as hell. I'd prefer the Cavs package though.
3. Boston Celtics
Marcus Smart, James Young, Jared Sullinger, Brandon Bass, 3 future first round picks
There is no Wiggins or Thompson in this group. (I do really like Smart.) Minnesota says they want real dudes and not assets. They've missed the playoffs the last 10 years so that makes some sense. But this offer warrants a good long look. Two 1st rounders from this year, solid young big in Sully, an expiring deal in Bass AND multiple future 1st rounders (I'll let them figure out Clippers, Nets, Cavs, their own, whatever.)
C's package is nothing to sneeze at. It's a lot to give up actually if you're Boston. But with an assurance that he'd stay, it's worth it. Rondo + Love in the East makes me a happy Celtics fan. Fill in the rest accordingly.
IF those are the deals on the table. I'd look at it like this...
Cavs > Celtics > Warriors
And of course don't rule out mystery team!
The Love Saga continues...
