The blockbuster deal between the Cleveland Cavaliers and Boston Celtics that sent shockwaves around the NBA is continuing to draw a lot of opinions from players, coaches, and other members of the basketball community. Many have chimed in on the conversation, and given their thoughts on who they think is in a better situation now after the trade.
The latest to voice out his opinion is Celtics legend Robert Parish, who said that he thinks the Cavs got better end of the deal, as they received a three players and a valuable first round pick next year. He added that Kyrie Irving is a very good player, and that he doesn’t question his former team’s decision to acquire him, but he just feels that the Cavaliers have a slight edge with the move long-term.
After weeks of speculating where he’ll end up playing next, the Eastern Conference rivals pulled off a shocker as Irving was shipped to Boston in exchange for Isaiah Thomas, Jae Crowder, Ante Zizic, and an unprotected first rounder in the 2018 draft. Although it may seem like too much to give up for just one player, the four-time All-Star point guard is one of the elite players in the league today, and also has championship experience, which makes him even more valuable.
For the Cavaliers, they can now move on from Irving, and still have an All-Star point guard in their fold, with Thomas. Crowder is expected to play a crucial role for them as he has established himself as a good defender, also capable of scoring when needed. Zizic is considered a raw talent, but could be a solid talent in the future if he further develops his game. The pick will depend on how the Brooklyn Nets will fare this coming season; however, there’s a strong chance it may be one of the top selections.
It remains to be seen if the moves the Cavs made this summer will be enough for them to win another title, but it’s not hard to see that they got the better part of the deal. It would only give their players more confidence, and also vindicate their front office executives with the decision they made.