DraftExpress is reporting that multiple sources within the Minnesota organization are saying that GM Kevin McHale has locked onto Kevin Love as his favorite prospect in the draft.
McHale reportedly likes the skill-level and all-around feel for the game that Love brings to the table, as well as his winning mentality, and sees him as an excellent potential compliment to Al Jefferson in Minnesota’s front-court.
Picking 3rd in this draft, many would consider it a reach to take Love, although numerous advanced statistical formulas have identified him as being the 2nd most productive player in this draft, behind Michael Beasley.
There is already some talk that Minnesota will look to make a trade with Memphis GM Chris Wallace, who would then have the option of fortifying his front-court by drafting Brook Lopez at #3, or swinging for the fences and taking O.J. Mayo. Memphis could offer Minnesota the young prospect of their choice in Kyle Lowry, Hakim Warrick or Javaris Crittenton to help facilitate the deal.
A couple of weeks ago, I posted a video of Love in training and commented how he looked leaner and more athletic. It looks like McHale sees the same things.
Minnesota’s backcourt features Randy Foye and Rashad McCants, and they have Al Jefferson manning the middle, so Kevin Love would seem to be a nice addition to that core group of guys. Ryan Gomes is decent, but he’s probably better suited to be a combo forward off the bench. Last year’s first round pick, Corey Brewer, had an awful season (37.4% from the field, 5.8 ppg) so small forward is an option as well. Going with Love would allow Brewer to develop for another season or two before giving up on him.
Another school of thought would have the Wolves take Brook Lopez with the pick, which would allow Jefferson to play his “natural” position of power forward. But the league is getting smaller and quicker and Jefferson is best when his back is to the basket, so maybe his best position is center.
Are there any Minnesota fans that want to chime in?
