Minneapolis is driving a hard bargain in the Kevin Love negotiations, and it begs the question of what are the consequences should the deal not get done. Many have suggested it is a deal too good for the Cavaliers to not do, and most have suggested that they shouldn’t let reluctance to part with Wiggins, their most recent top overall draft pick get in the way. I cannot argue with the logic, as Kevin Love is clearly a talent worth coveting, and 20 point 10 rebound guarantees with a 6’10” All Star don’t become available every day. However, if we reflect upon what the Cavs look like should they NOT do the deal, it may merit consideration.
Without Love, a projected starting line up for the Cavs would be Kyrie Irving at the point, Kevin Wiggins at shooting guard, Anderson Varejao at center, Tristan Thompson and Love’s position – power forward, and of course, Lebron James on the forward wing. How would you like defensively to have Wiggins and James guarding the wings?
What would the second unit look like? Dion Waiters first off at shooting guard, Bennett – last year’s overall number one behind Tristan Thompson, Brendan Haywood behind Varejao, Mike Miller behind Lebron, and a nice young point guard back-up named Dellavedova behind Kyrie Irving. Now you’re 10 deep, still haven’t accounted for James Jones, let alone Ray Allen should he come along. Get my drift? Of course you would want to add a Kevin Love to the mix, but some pretty positive assets would come off the above accounting to make that happen. Speaking of accounting, add up Thompson, Waiters, Bennett, and Wiggins, and you approximate what Kevin Love will cost you in salary. Then throw in your first pick in next year’s draft. I’m not sure I take that deal. Those guys can compete as they stand.
slimcrow 
I have no issues if they don’t make the trade. But if I could, I would. You’re holding on to a guy who may well be the next really big thing. But that’s a hope. You never know. In the meantime, Love is pretty good right now. If Wiggins worked out to be as good as Love everyone would consider it a win. So take Love, it’s a win right now. But if you don’t get him, you’re not in bad shape. Either way, you’ll have to go through Spurs to the championship. I think Cavs will beat Bulls, Pacers, Washington and Miami. Bulls, with a healthy Rose, could be tough (with or without Love) but I think they’ll pull through. But has anyone considered what will happen to ‘brand’ Lebron if they get to the finals against the Spurs (in particular) and any team in general but do not win the title? I could just see the headlines…he still couldn’t get it done. And regardless of what Mickey, Pat and Miami say they’ll be celebrating. Privately, yes, but celebrate they will. It’s almost as if it’s better that they don’t make the finals right away.