Despite a strong reported offer made by the Chicago Bulls, the Timberwolves still prefer the trade proposal the Cleveland Cavaliers have made for Kevin Love, ESPN reports.
Bulls Offer
Forwards Taj Gibson, Doug McDermott and Nikola Mirotic. McDermott signed his rookie contract on Tuesday and Mirotic inked his rookie deal on July 18. The Bulls can’t trade either for 30 days, so the earliest they could stike a deal with the Wolves is August 21.
Cavs Offer
Swingman Andrew Wiggins along with last year’s No. 1 pick power forward Anthony Bennett and a first-round pick. Wiggins signed his rookie deal on Thursday, so the earliest they Cavs can trade with Minnesota is August 23.
Bulls Made Mirotic Promise
There’s one major problem with the Bulls’ offer. The Bulls promised Mirotic, who has been compared to Mavericks star Dirk Nowitzki, that they won’t trade him, as reported by the Chicago Tribune, via Pro Basketball Talk.
Mirotic bought out his contract with Real Madrid of the Spanish League only after the Bulls committed to keeping him in Chicago, according to a source familiar with negotiations.
Mirotic bought out his contract for $3 million, which the Bulls helped cover only $600,000 of.
Taylor Prefers Wiggins
Another critical piece of a trade is what the Timberwolves’ big boss, owner Glen Taylor thinks. ESPN says Taylor prefers the
Cavs deal “because Wiggins is widely seen as possessing superstar potential while also just starting out on a rookie contract.” It is believed the Wolves even prefer the Cavs deal over the previously rumored deal with Golden State that may or may not include Klay Thompson.
Seen some speculation that Glen and Flip aren't on same page. I can assure you that's not the case. Both love Wiggins' potential
— Jon Krawczynski (@JonKrawczynski) July 25, 2014
