With the Los Angeles Lakers failing to make the playoffs for the first time since the 2004-05 season, much of the discussion has been about how the Lakers will rebuild. While the Lakers will have a lottery pick in this year’s draft, there was speculation earlier on Friday that they may try to trade the pick for Kevin Love.
Following the 143-107 Timberwolves win, Love addressed his upcoming free agency in 2015 and Los Angeles according to Los Angeles Times’ Mike Bresnahan:
“You know, my parents lived there and they had me there. It’s not my fault,” he said. “I don’t really care about that right now. I just go out there and play and don’t think about it.”
With the Lakers struggling, all the talk seems to center around Love. At different points of the season, many executives have spoken up and believe that the All-Star power forward will eventually make his way to Los Angeles. During the trade deadline, there were rumors the Lakers were actually trying to acquire him as well.
Since Love is still a member of the Timberwolves, these comments shouldn’t come as a surprise. In an interview with GQ Magazine a couple months ago, Love said Minnesota had the better team and foundation. However, he has also voiced his frustrations throughout the season about a team that was built for and supposed to make the playoffs.
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While Love becomes a free agent in 2015, there will continue to be conversations about him and the Lakers. Although rebuilding the Lakers into a championship contender in two seasons is a more realistic goal, Kobe Bryant’s recent comments may have forced the team’s hand.
With a high lottery pick and ample cap room, the Lakers do have an opportunity to turn the franchise around as early as this summer. The Lakers have 10 games remaining in the season and will look to avoid being the worst team in franchise history.
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