NBA: 5 biggest takeaways from Kyrie Irving-Isaiah Thomas trade

1. Did either team close the gap between themselves and the Warriors?

Overall, both teams did manage to get somewhat better. The Celtics are getting a player who is in his prime, with the best years of his NBA career still ahead of him. On top of that, they are getting a player who knows how to perform on the league’s biggest stage as he is coming off three straight Finals appearances.

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Meanwhile, not only did the Cavs get an equally talented point guard in return, they also acquired a player who can get the job done at both ends of the floor in Crowder. The other side of the coin for the Cavs in this scenario is the hip injury that resulted in IT missing the remaining three games of the Eastern Conference finals.

How significant is the injury?

Well, just a few days ago, Celtics coach Brad Stevens advised he wasn’t sure if Thomas would be ready for training camp. That being said, Thomas’ status is considered a wildcard at this juncture.

The bigger question is: Did either squad close the gap between themselves and the Warriors?

The answer is an emphatic no.

Next: NBA Trade Grades - Cavaliers send Kyrie Irving to Celtics

Sure, the Celts and Cavs will more than likely battle it out for the top spot in the conference for the second consecutive year. But when it is all said and done, neither ball club has the talent level to compete against the Dubs in a seven-game playoff series.