The Boston Celtics and Cleveland Cavaliers announced on Tuesday a deal that involves trading Kyrie Irving to Boston in exchange for isaiah thomas, Jae Crowder, Ante Zizic, and the Brooklyn Nets' 2018 unprotected first-round pick.
Irving gets his wish
Irving, 25, had asked for a trade in order to step out of LeBron James' shadow and lead a different franchise to success. Now, Irving will be able to join the second best team in the Eastern Conference and immediately become its biggest star. The likes of Gordon Hayward or Al Horford cannot compare to Irving's stardom.
Irving will look to lead and take a solid team to newer heights.
We all cannot wait for a more than probable Western Conference Finals between the Cleveland Cavaliers and Boston Celtics. LeBron's team would face off against Irving's team. The relationship between the two did not end on the best terms. Irving believed LeBron wanted him out and had leaked his transfer request. James felt blindsided and betrayed by Irving. Still, LeBron had some kind words for Irving following the news of the trade.
"That's the only way to be to the kid! Special talent/guy! Nothing but respect and what a ride it was our 3 years together Young God," James tweeted.
Celtics move on from Thomas
Thomas, 28, had one year left in his contract.
There were rumblings around the league concerning the Celtics' doubts about re-signing Thomas, who is an undersized point guard at 5 ft 9 in and a defensive liability, to a max contract extension. It is clear now that Danny Ainge did not foresee championship success with Thomas being their best player.
"This has obviously been a roller coaster of a day for us, trading away Isaiah and Jae and Ante, especially Isaiah and Jae, who have been such a big part of our team and our success and our Celtic culture as leaders of our team.
Very, very difficult day," Ainge said. At the same time, Ainge voiced his happiness to have Irving in a Celtics' uniform. He acknowledged that they had paid a high price, but that it was a logical price for one of the best offensive players in the game.
Crowder had also become the soul of the team as he brought everyone together and led by example by giving his all on every night.
Last but not least, the Nets 2018 first-round pick, which looks like will be very valuable given the Nets deficient team, was also hard to give up. But the Celtics have strongly bet on Irving and apparently value him more than Thomas, Crowder, and a high first-round pick combined.
Cavs were patient
The Cavaliers have been able to receive quality assets in return for Irving. They did not settle for young talents that could be offered by teams like the Phoenix Suns or Sacramento Kings. Rather, they have been able to remain calm and patient and ultimately secure a current star in Thomas, who came fifth in MVP voting last season, a solid role player in Crowder, and also a very valuable first-round pick that will allow them to plan for the future in the event that LeBron leaves next year.
