The rumor was originally "Isaiah, Crowder, Lakers Pick" for most Irving trade rumors at the end of July and most of August. Even that was considered a slight overpay on Boston's part.
Then the deal happens, and it's "IT4, Crowder, 2018 Nets Pick, AND Zizic"
I've obviously let known what my initial thoughts on the trade were (and I'm sure I've annoyed a ton of people in the process LOL), but what baffles me is how Zizic was added to what already was an overpay.
Seems like Zizic was just a "throw-in" in this deal, and that's ridiculous because many experts said that in this previous draft (2017 NBA Draft), Zizic would likely have been a Top-10 pick (or at least a lottery one).
So far, in 3 preseason games (and yes, I'm aware, it's only preseason):
10/4 vs. Atlanta Hawks: 4 points (3/5 shooting), 6 rebounds, 1 block (12 minutes)
10/6 vs. Indiana Pacers: 1 point, 1 rebound, 2 blocks (12 minutes)
10/8 vs. Washington Wizards: 7 points (2/3 shooting), 7 rebounds, 1 block (23 minutes)
Not too shabby. Struggled against Indiana but had 2 blocks in that game, and in the other 2 games had 6-7 rebounds with a block added too.
I think Zizic was slightly overhyped to begin with (like he wasn't a unicorn like Jokic as some on here said or anything like that), but still thought he could grow into a solid player (fringe starter who rebounds very well too).
Instead he goes to Cleveland and now Cleveland has two huge assets to potentially cash in on (either short term via trade, or long term assuming Lebron leaves).
And I know injuries happen, but now with Baynes likely out for a bit, suddenly our depth at center looks really, really thin again. Welp.
I understand Isaiah's injury played a part in all of this, but according to many reports, NO other team came close to what Boston was offering.
Zizic could have been used in another trade for another star to pair with Irving/Hayward and maybe Horford. Instead now the treasure chest is a lot thinner than it needed to be, with the Celtics still 1 star away from legitimately contending (IMHO).
if you were the Celtics GM, nothing would ever get done
can't be always trying to rip off other teams .... yes Danny succeeded a few times (half by luck)
but at some point , it can't continue
Celtics gave up IT4 (who may never be the same again), 2018 Nets pick (which could be in the 7-9 range) and Crowder (who is a solid pro but nothing great)
add a 20th pick Zizic .... and you are mad about this? Zizic was on the way to warm up the bench or start in the G league...