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.
The more the process plays out, the more the Wolves’ near-term options seem to be dwindling. The Cavaliers are said to be willing to consider a deal for Love, but No. 1 overall pick Andrew Wiggins has been assured he would not be included in any such trade, a source told Sporting News. That leaves the Timberwolves to pick over the likes of forward Anthony Bennett (last year’s top pick) and guard Dion Waiters.
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That could leave Saunders rather disappointed in the market for Love, even as he figures to become the best available asset on the market.
And it could be beneficial two the two teams who have been most active in the Love market — Boston and Golden State. While a source said recently that the Timberwolves and Warriors have moved on from their talks about Love, which hinged on Golden State including guard Klay Thompson, those talks can easily be revived at any point this summer if the market for Love continues to be dry.
Also, the Celtics remain hopeful of using its raft of draft picks to help the team lure Saunders into a deal. Boston acquired a pick from the Cavaliers to facilitate the trade that cleared room for James this week, and now could have as many as nine first-round picks in the next four drafts.
Fret not, Celtics fans. Despite all the assumptions that Love is destined for Cleveland, the Celtics still have a chance.
Let’s make one thing clear, if Cleveland wants Love they can get him. And he’s reportedly willing to resign there long term.
But it doesn’t appear that Wiggins is on the market. And Chris Broussard doesn’t expect Dion Waiters to be included either. (Yes, I’ll reference Broussard when his claims fit my point).
Cleveland may chose to enter the season with its young roster and a few veterans to compliment LeBron. And we should hope that they race out to a 30-3 start. Same goes for Golden State. GMs will be less likely to upset their rotation – even for a player like Love – if their teams are playing exceptionally well.
And… we need to have Marcus Smart, Jared Sullinger and Kelly Olynyk playing well and healthy.
It may sound like the perfect storm, but I also believe it’s far from a long shot.
On Page 2, the Celtics nearly had a taker for Brandon Bass.
Yeah, James held up NBA business for 11 days while he decided his future. Teams were angry. Some had assets that evaporated during the wait, including the Warriors, who considered Brandon Bass and other names in exchange for a trade exception that expired yesterday at midnight.
Golden State had a $9.8 million TPE that went poof on Thursday at midnight. The Warriors reported interest in Bass goes back to the trade deadline. It appears they want someone who can play behind David Lee and are not happy with Marreese Speights.
One other free agent note, the Hawks have signed guard Kent Bazemore. I assume the Celtics interest in Bazemore waned once they acquired Marcus Thornton.
And finally, some Heat fans I can respect:
The rest of the links:
ESPN Boston – Smart wraps up summer league on high note | Herald – Impressions made will determine who stays | Globe – Smart shines in summer league
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