Minnesota Timberwolves owner Glen Taylor seemingly confirmed star Kevin Love is headed to the Cleveland Cavaliers. Taylor said Love would "likely" be dealt by Aug. 23 or Aug. 24, the date when Cavaliers rookie Andrew Wiggins becomes eligible to be traded.
Taylor appeared to tip his hat as to Love's future when the 73-year-old owner told the St. Paul Pioneer Press a deal is expected to become official on Aug. 23 or Aug. 24.
"I'm saying it's most likely because Kevin has made it pretty clear that's what he wants to do," Taylor said.
Wiggins, the purported centerpiece of the trade, isn't eligible to be traded until Aug. 23 - per NBA rules, a rookie is ineligible to be dealt until 30 days after the date on which he signed his contracts. Anthony Bennett, the 2013 first overall pick, and a future first-round draft pick also are expected to be included in the trade.
ESPN's Marc Stein and Brian Windhorst reported Thursday NBA insiders believe it's a matter of when, not if, the trade will be finalized.
Although at least one report indicated Love would opt out of his contract next summer to sign a maximum contract, there's seemingly no doubt Love wants to play beside four-time MVP LeBron James.
Per ESPN:
"Sources told ESPN.com earlier this month that Love is highly intrigued by the idea of playing alongside Olympic teammate LeBron James on a full-time basis and is not put off by the fact that James' new contract with the Cavs span only two seasons and includes a player option to return to free agency next summer."
As for Wiggins, one of the few players whom James didn't mention in his open letter, the rookie told ESPN's "SportsCenter" he isn't taking the trade talks personally and wants to play for whichever team wants him.
