Cleveland Cavaliers: Early grades for each offseason move
By Ryan Piers
The mega deal: Trading Kyrie Irving to Boston Celtics for Isaiah Thomas, Jae Crowder, Ante Zizic and a 2018 first round draft pick
To be fair, the grade on this trade is somewhat incomplete. Measuring Thomas’ value without seeing him in uniform is nearly impossible. Luckily, the trade piece that was the most valuable get for the Cavs in the deal, the Brooklyn Nets pick, appears like it will reach its original, projected value.
After a 3-2 start, the Nets have plummeted back to earth in losing six of their last eight games. Their upcoming schedule is tumultuous and their best player, D’Angelo Russell, is injured. The team is beginning to look the part of a bottom-three squad.
Plus, their competition for a first three pick is improving. The Phoenix Suns and Los Angeles Lakers have (relatively) found their grooves, while the Atlanta Hawks even strung together a few solid wins. The pick appears to be a sure-fire top five selection, likely top three.
That, in itself, might be just as valuable as Kyrie Irving. If Nets finish last in the league and the No. 1 pick falls in the Cavs’ lap. That may mean Marvin Bagley III, who looks like a franchise-altering player. I know they’re against Elon University, but THESE HIGHLIGHTS:
Even if they earn the second through fourth pick, the Cavs land a player who could be a No. 1 selection any other year. Michael Porter Jr. casually scored 21 points in his debut against Kansas, Luca Doncic is being tagged as a European prodigy, and Arizona’s DeAndre Ayton might be the best out the bunch.
The point being, there are many great options for that Nets pick, which appears it will be top tier.
Thomas will likely be fine. Jae Crowder has been solid. Ante Zizic is a wild card. It appears the pick will be good. So for that, the Cavaliers earn a “B,” with potential for improvement, on the Kyrie Irving trade.
Next: 2017-18 Week 5 NBA Power Rankings
Grade: B