The stalled NBA trade involving the Cleveland Cavaliers and the Boston Celtics is expected to get done soon finally. With questions raised about the health of Isaiah Thomas, the celebrated trade drew a snag when the Cavs were reportedly looking into the 28-year-old guard’s health status.
When that came out, there were fears of the trade being voided unless the Celtics would compensate the deficiency. There were reports that the Cavs were seeking to include Jaylen Brown or Jayson Tatum in the package, something that further complicated things. Now, Real GM reports a sensible compromise where the Cavs may get a late first round pick or second rounder.
Celtics have picks to spare
As mentioned in a previous post, the Boston Celtics have a ton of future picks at their disposal. The issue was really more on balancing the whole trade focused around Kyrie Irving and Isaiah Thomas. Jae Crowder, Ante Zizic, and a 2018 pick were already packaged for “Uncle Drew” so it may have been overkill to add one more player.
Seeing Irving, Thomas and the rest sent back to their respective ballclubs would have been pretty awkward. Irving had long wanted out of Cleveland while Thomas probably got word of Celtics fans burning his replica jerseys. Thanks to the recent developments, the deal may finally get done.
I.T. vows to be the same
Other than the tweaks made to the deal, Isaiah Thomas recently spoke with ESPN.
He is obviously clueless on what lies ahead though he cleared the air regarding his hip injury.
According to Thomas, he is not damaged goods and that there was never any indication that he would not be back. He could end up being absent for the early part of the 2017-18 NBA season if he undergoes a medical procedure. Regardless, he reiterates that he will be back like before – possibly better and stronger.
Good news for Thomas future team/s
The vow of Thomas should be music to the ears of the Cavs. However, Cleveland may face another dilemma after the 2017-18 NBA season. The 28-year-old will become an unrestricted free agent and has already hinted at wanting a max contract.
It may be too early to tell if the Cavs would grant him his wish.
A lot hinges on his performance this season – assuming he does return and play like his old self. The situation changes if complications come into play (i.e., delayed recovery period or medical clearances).
Money is also an issue with the Cavs way over the salary cap. There is the LeBron James’ decision after this NBA season as well. There are many things to ponder ahead for the Cavs so it may be wise to consummate this deal first and worry about other things later.
