The Minnesota Timberwolves are intent on getting something of value for disgruntled All-Star power forward Kevin Love and plan to wait out the free-agent signing period in hopes offers for him will improve as teams turn to other options.
The 25-year-old Love no longer denies he wants out of Minnesota, but he is expected to become an unrestricted free agent after next season and leave the Timberwolves. Minnesota, however, is desperate not to let him to walk without getting something in return, and has recently fielded offers for the six-year veteran.
ESPN.com reports the Wolves thought they had a deal worked out with Golden State for Klay Thompson, only to have the Warriors pull the plug.
Kevin Love visits Boston Celtics
The Chicago Bulls, Phoenix Suns and Houston Rockets are also rumored to have interest in acquiring Love, but each team has current unrestricted free agents LeBron James and Carmelo Anthony higher on its priority list. The Suns have enough salary-cap room to pursue both superstars.
Love averaged 26.1 points, 12.5 rebounds and 4.4 assists last season. Over his career, he's averaged 19 points and 12 rebounds. The 6-foot-10, 245-pound Love has averaged at least 20.2 points and 12. 5 rebounds in three of the last four seasons, though the Wolves have yet to make the playoffs over his first six seasons.
A native of Santa Monica, Calif., and UCLA alumnus, Love has expressed his interest in returning to the Los Angeles area and playing for the Lakers, who he cheered for during his childhood.
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