Glen Taylor expects Kevin Love to be a Timberwolf beyond his current contract

Dec 29, 2012; Minneapolis, MN, USA; Minnesota Timberwolves forward Kevin Love (42) smiles prior to the game against the Phoenix Suns at the Target Center. The Timberwolves defeated the Suns 111-107. Mandatory Credit: Brace Hemmelgarn-USA TODAY Sports

Expect Kevin Love in a Timberwolves uniform for a long time.

At least, that is what team owner Glen Taylor believes.

Taylor expects Love to be with the franchise even beyond the remaining three seasons on his contract starting next fall, according to David Shama of ShamaSportsHeadliners.com.

"“Yeah, that’s what he indicated to me, that he’s looking long run,” Taylor said.  “I think he knows of Ricky’s (Rubio) potential. …He likes some of the other players on the team.  He can see we’re building a good nucleus.  He certainly likes the coach (Rick Adelman).”"

Love has recently expressed his commitment to the Timberwolves, amidst criticism that he is not fully committed to the team. This is a change from just a few months ago when Love voiced his frustrations about the franchise.

In an article by Adrian Wojnarowski of Yahoo! Sports last December, Love broke his silence on many topics relating to the franchise, including the questioning of Taylor’s support in the two-time All-Star.

"“I don’t know who labels people stars, but even [T’wolves owner] Glen Taylor said: I don’t think Kevin Love is a star, because he hasn’t led us to the playoffs,” Love told Yahoo! Sports. “I mean, it’s not like I had much support out there."

Love hasn’t played since Jan. 3 because of injury, but he hopes he and forward Chase Budinger can return to play 15-20 games this season.

"“It’s very important,” Love said of playing this season via the Star Tribune. “Just to get back with the full team, Chase included. Having a full roster, that’s the biggest thing for us.”"