Warriors' Kevin Love Trade Talks Labeled 'Dead,' For Now
OAKLAND (CBS SF) - Rumors have been swirling for weeks that the Golden State Warriors are on the verge of a blockbuster deal that would land them high-scoring big-man Kevin Love from the Minnesota Timberwolves, but formal talks on that deal are apparently stalled.
Love, the NBA's fourth highest scorer last year, has told reporters he has no plans to sign a new contract with the T-Wolves. He has signaled that Oakland is one of his preferred landing spots, and the Warriors have apparently shown mutual interest. However, several media outlets have indicated that the Minnesota asking price for Love includes Warriors Guard Klay Thompson, along with other players. That price appears to be too steep for Golden State according the Rich Bucher of Bleacher Report, who says the deal is now "dead." Baxter Holmes of the Boston Globe says Thompson continues to be the sticking point:
Thompson has paired with Steph Curry to form one of the best shooting backcourts in NBA history. Thompson is also a strong defender, and has been considered a key piece of the Warriors recent rebuilding success.
On the other hand, CBS Sports writer James Herbert says he thinks Love is arguably a top five player in the league and that his addition, even with the loss of Thompson, would make the Warriors a title contender. He thinks it's very likely a deal could still get done.
"This looks like Golden State dragging things out, and nothing more," writes Herbert.
