The Chicago Bulls have reportedly re-entered themselves back into the Kevin Love sweepstakes, according to a source close to the situation.
The Minnesota Timberwolves star wants out of the Twin Cities and talks between T-Wolves General Manager Flip Saunders and the Cleveland Cavaliers had many predicting that LeBron James would partner Love in Ohio by the season's start, but Chicago reportedly made an offer that is being "heavily considered" on Wednesday morning.
According NBA reporter Chris Sheridan, the Bulls have tabled a bid of former Real Madrid forward Nikola Mirotic, 11th overall pick Doug McDermott and Taj Gibson among other "assets" for the power forward.
Despite the Cavs inclusion of 2014 #1 pick Andrew Wiggins in a trade deal for Love, Saunder's intention to "win-now" in Minnesota in 2014-15 could make the Bulls offer a favourable one.
Draft pick Doug McDermott has only recently signed his rookie deal with the Bulls, meaning that a deal could not be made official until 30 days from the signature, but an agreement could be made in principle for the 25-year-old All Star.
According to Joe Cowley of the Chicago Sun-Times, Chicago "upped the ante" for Love on learning that the player would be interested in signing long-term with the Bulls should a deal be made.
Kevin Love's contract expires upon the conclusion of the 2014/15 season, and presents a risk to any side trading for him similar to Dwight Howard's move to - and latterly departure from - the Los Angeles Lakers.
The Cavs current offer is reportedly Wiggins, Anthony Bennet and another first-round pick, one that is reportedly superceded by the recent offer made by Gar Forman and the Chicago Bulls.
Kevin Love averaged 26 points and 12 rebounds for the Minnesota Timberwolves in 2013-14.