Amusing to see the Boston media's automatic negative reaction to this deal on twitter. Almost as though they felt obligated.
The twitter vote is split 50/50 for and against the trade. A lot of understandable sentiment for IT--and also Crowder. Both have given some great years on the cheap in Boston, and should be applauded.
I'll take Ainge's side on this one. Irving has a favorable contract similar to Butler which fits under the cap, with Horford and Hayward. IT is talking max after this year, and the Celts can't afford him. Which I suspect is the major driving force for the deal--from Ainge's standpoint. There is also the question of IT's hip, which apparently was not a factor in the deal.
The Cavs? Well, Irving wanted out--and he wanted Boston. The Celtics had some pieces of interest long range to the Cavs. Crowder's favorable contract, the Nets 18 pick, Zizic (whom I view as a project), and one year of IT.
Crowder became expendable with Hayward signed. Zizic never figured for much PT this year, and they have the Lakers or Kings pick '18 or '19.
I would agree with Danny. I think they are better.