A few days ago I was reading that the Nets pick wasn't that special, and would most likely be around #7.
Now, it's perhaps the best single asset in the NBA. It's hands down better than Phoenix's pick, for instance.
Which is it? The value shouldn't change based upon whether Cleveland or Boston has the pick.
While I do HATE the trade, I truthfully do think the Lakers Pick will end up better.
Main difference is the West is A LOT harder than the East now, so even with the Nets being bad, they should get some extra wins this season.
Still, my guess is, in the West, the Lakers are the 2nd worst team in the conference (Kings worst), and in the East, Nets are a 12 seed with Hawks, Bulls, and Knicks as worse (assuming Melo is traded of course).
So of course, Nets Pick could still land Top-5, but I honestly doubt it's a Top-3 pick. Lakers Pick has a good shot at being 2-5 (which is great for us).
But yeah, still sucks to lose Nets Pick assuming this trade does go through, especially for a guy who didn't even have a better season than Isaiah last year and there's understandably questions on whether he can be an alpha who can lead a team far in playoffs (b/c with Isaiah, I saw him lead us to the ECF despite all the doubters).