Kevin Love has withdrawn from Team USA this summer because he doesn’t want to risk injury amidst ongoing trade talks, according to the Associated Press.
Love, who was among the first players to recommit to the World Cup team, reportedly informed USA Basketball chairman Jerry Colangelo of his decision on Friday night. From AP:
With no idea where he will be playing in the NBA next season, Kevin Love has withdrawn from this summer’s Team USA basketball roster.
Love is in limbo while the Minnesota Timberwolves field offers for their three-time All-Star, a process that was complicated and likely lengthened when Cleveland Cavaliers rookie Andrew Wiggins signed his contract this week.
Under NBA rules, Wiggins cannot be traded until 30 days after he signed his contract with the Cavaliers.
That length of time allows other teams to make offers for Love as well, but also makes it too risky for Love to participate with Team USA. An injury could derail any trade possibilities, so Love had to take the difficult step of informing Colangelo on Friday night that he would not be able to participate.
Love joins Blake Griffin, LaMarcus Aldridge and Kawhi Leonard who have also withdrawn in recent weeks. Training camp for Team USA starts Monday in Las Vegas.
