Every morning, we compile the links of the day and dump them here… highlighting the big storyline. Because there’s nothing quite as satisfying as a good morning dump.
Forward Kevin Love is perhaps adding a new twist to recent trade talks by indicating he wants to be dealt to the Cleveland Cavaliers.
Multiple league sources told FOX Sports Ohio on Friday they are under the impression Love has relayed his desire for a trade to Cleveland to his agent. Love is represented by Jeff Schwartz.
Sources could not say for certain whether Love or Schwartz have made a formal trade request to the Timberwolves. Most believe if such a request is made, the Cavs will be able to obtain Love at a considerably cheaper cost than what is being discussed by the teams.
The Cavs and Timberwolves have reportedly talked about a deal that would send Love to Cleveland and team him with fellow All-Stars LeBron James and Kyrie Irving. Sources have said Cavs rookie Andrew Wiggins has been a sticking point in the talks, as the Cavs are hesitant to surrender the No. 1 overall draft pick.
It is believed the Timberwolves have indicated they won’t trade Love unless they receive Wiggins as part of a package in return. Officials from the Cavs and Timberwolves have refused comment on the talks.
ESPN’s Stephen A. Smith earlier reported Love is making teams aware he only wants to be traded to Cleveland.
LeBron James has ruined my summer. If that sob stays in Miami and Golden State maintains its position of not trading Klay Thompson, then the Celtics are still in the mix for Kevin Love.
Now we are left with nothing but faded memories of Love’s late spring fling in Boston. Ah, the pain…
Enjoy Cleveland, Kevin. I’m sure you’ll play the role of Chris Bosh extremely well.
In related news, Love has pulled out of Team USA activities this summer. He doesn’t want an injury to derail his future plans.
On Page 2, a sensible look at Rajon Rondo’s uncertain future.
For whatever reason, the atmosphere around Rondo has grown so toxic that these issues aren’t anywhere near the surface. Instead, the discussion is hijacked far too often by illiterate, tired commentary, mostly coming from particularly loud members of Boston sports media — people who would complain about the weather if they won the lottery on a cloudy day — that unnecessarily go out of their way to vilify the four-time All-Star at all costs.
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There’s nothing wrong with saying “the Celtics have to trade Rondo,” but most who do just step on an escalator to nowhere. Answers to key follow-up questions such as “Where?” or “For what?” are hardly ever brought up. Smart trade proposals do exist — Rondo isn’t exactly Anthony Davis-level invincible — but they’re few and far between. Only a tiny number of teams: 1) have the need for a franchise point guard, and 2) have the necessary assets to pry him away. It’s all so much easier said than done.
Some excellent commentary here by Michael Vina. It’s the anti-#HOTSPORTSTAKE.
I believe the Celtics can resign Rondo to a healthy, below max-level contract. A deal that escalates from $14 to $18 million and carries a total value of $80 – $85 million.
And finally, the Celtics share a workout video with some of the youngsters.
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