Report: Kevin Love's 'people' warn Timberwolves he'll leave in free-agency if they don't trade him
Although Minnesota Timberwolves forward Kevin Love has another year left on his contract, reports of his dissatisfaction with the franchise are starting to emerge.
Case in point: Mitch Lawrence of the New York Daily News' report:
Kevin Love’s people reiterated to the Timberwolves this past week that they had better trade him or else he’ll leave via free agency when his contract is up after next season.
Love wants to play for the Lakers but he’s also open to coming to the Knicks
Although the report doesn't offer anything more than speculation, it's worth noting that Love's Timberwolves have yet to qualify for the playoffs during his six-year career.
Last season, the power forward averaged 25.9 points, 12.5 rebounds and 4.4 assists per game. He finished with a player efficiency rating of 26.9, which ranked third in the league behind Kevin Durant and LeBron James. He was named to the All-Star team as a starter for the Western Conference.
However, despite his best efforts, his 'Wolves only managed a record of 40-42 on the season, which fell far short of playoff qualification.
Love's contract with Minnesota ends in 2015, after which he will become an unrestricted free-agent. If the report is accurate, and he intends to join the Lakers or Knicks, both teams will have enough cap space to sign Love to a maximum deal, as it currently stands.
[H/T Pro Basketball Talk]