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Once LeBron James decided to take his talents to Cleveland, Ohio and return home to the Cavaliers, they instantly emerged as the leaders to land All-Star big man Kevin Love. The Chicago Bulls made one last effort to convince the Minnesota Timberwolves they could offer a better package than the Cavs, but the T-Wolves were not impressed. Once the Cavs decided they would include number one overall pick Andrew Wiggins in the deal, it was only a matter of time until both teams got the trade done, but they had to wait 30 days after Wiggins signed his rookie contract to officially include him in the deal.
While the Cavs can’t officially trade Wiggins until the August 23rd, according to Adrian Wojnarowski of Yahoo Sports, the Cavs and Timberwolves have an agreement in place to send Love to Cleveland for Wiggins, Anthony Bennett, and a first round pick:
Sources: Cavs have agreement for Kevin Love, including long-term contract commitment. Wiggins, Bennett, pick to Minn. http://t.co/r2KmO5owwY
— Adrian Wojnarowski (@WojYahooNBA) August 7, 2014
This is no shock to anyone around the NBA, but at least it finally puts an end to all of the Love rumors. The acquisition of Love will give the Cavs their own version of the big three. Kyrie Irving, Love, and James will be a force to be reckoned with in the Eastern Conference for years to come. The trade makes sense for both teams, the Cavs give up two number one overall picks and a future first rounder, but receive one of the best big men in the NBA. The Wolves knew they couldn’t re-sign Love, so getting Wiggins and Bennett in return for a player that had his foot out the door is a victory for the organization.
Wojnarowski also reported that Love has guaranteed the Cavs that he will opt out next season and sign an extension with the team, giving the Cavs the next several years to bring Cleveland their first championship in ages. The Warriors were once the favorites to land Love, but the front office was not willing to give up Klay Thompson in the deal. Now, the Warriors must move on from Love and figure out what to do with David Lee. Will the Warriors regret not pulling the trigger? Only time will tell.