The Houston Rockets reportedly plan to pursue Minnesota Timberwolves star Kevin Love in the offseason. Any trade for Love would likely be a three-team deal including a combination of Omer Asik, Terrence Jones, Chandler Parsons and a future first-round draft pick, according to ESPN.
Love reportedly told Minnesota over the weekend he plans to opt out of his contract next summer and become a free agent. With Love's departure from Minnesota appearing imminent, the Timberwolves' position on trading the All-Star has "softened."
One of the many teams expected to make an offer for Love is Houston, which has assets to trade and a viable chance of signing Love to an extension after next season.
"Rockets general manager Daryl Morey has always been one to go for top talent, even with risks, and he will likely try to entice Saunders to make a deal," Nick Borges of ESPN wrote on Monday. "Any deal involving Love will likely be a multi-team trade and Morey's outgoing assets might include a combination of Omer Asik, Terence Jones, Chandler Parsons and future first round picks."
The Associated Press reported Minnesota's asking price for Love would likely include a first-round draft pick and at least one veteran who can bring leadership into the locker room.
Love wants to leave Minnesota and join a playoff-caliber team. ESPN's David Thorpe believes Houston would be the All-Star's best fit.
"If you are wondering who is the single best 'partner' for Kevin Love, the answer is easy. Dwight Howard," Thorpe tweeted on Sunday. "... Love prefers the perimeter. Plus he is a very good half court passer. D12 at his best in 4 around 1 sets with all 4 shooting 3's."
Love, according to ESPN, favors signing with the Chicago Bulls or the Golden State Warriors. The Los Angeles Lakers and the New York Knicks, both of whom were rumored during the season to be likely destinations for Love, are expected to be contenders in the Love sweepstakes.
Minnesota owner Glen Taylor told the Minnesota Star Tribune on Sunday he doesn't plan to trade Love before the upcoming NBA draft.
