This one isn’t much of a surprise!
ESPN is reporting that the Minnesota Timberwolves and Cleveland Cavaliers have agreed to a trade that will see Love sent to the Cavs in exchange for Andrew Wiggins, Anthony Bennett and a projected 1st round pick in 2015.
You knew this trade was a done deal when by reading LeBron James’ letter announcing his return to Cleveland and he didn’t mention the Cavs numver on pick in Wiggins at all. You got the feeling that announcement was made with an eye on a longer term history, and LeBron knew at the time that he would never play with Wiggins.
I would like to have seen James play with Wiggins and Bennett. The Cavs would have been a very young and inexperienced team though and I don’t think LeBron has any interest in wasting some of his best years getting reps into these younger players only to be past his prime when they are ready to shine.
In trading for Love, the Cavs are now set for a run at the NBA championship in 2015. They won’t be looking to develop their side over a number of years. They are in “Win now” mode.
I do have concerns over Kevin Love and Kyrie Irving. Yes both players have put up nice numbers at times but neither player has played in a winning NBA team. They will play the biggest games of their NBA careers this upcoming season. They have to prove they can handle the big games and the big moments.
I think this is a great trade for the Timberwolves. They get a big piece in Wiggins who they can work on over the next few years to convince him to stay. I think Bennett will be a nice addition too and he will be much improved over last season. They also get an additional first round pick next year and are now free of the drama surrounding Love’s future.
