Why the Boston Celtics do it
This haul adds two 20+ point-per-game scorers that could immediately step into the starting lineup as well as two exceptional bench pieces. In fact, three of the incoming players could theoretically start alongside the “Jays” with Christian Wood and Mo Bamba sharing the frontcourt.
Between the rim-attacks of Victor Oladipo, the 3-point shooting of Terrence Ross, and the post-ups and face-up game of Christian Wood, this deal more than makes up for the shot-creation lost in dealing away Kemba Walker and Marcus Smart.
Why the Orlando Magic do it
This season is borderline unsalvagable for the Magic, who sit 5.5 games out of the final spot in the NBA’s play-in tournament at the #10 seed. That said, this deal gives them a veteran with proven success alongside Steve Clifford (Walker) and several additional first-round draft choices to aid in their rebuild if the team can’t climb out of its hole.
Why the Houston Rockets do it
For some reason, the Magic and Rockets have engaged in trade discussions centered around Aaron Gordon. If the Rockets are aiming to win games, this trade helps them do just that with two incoming 2014 lottery picks that can essentially step into leading roles with the second franchise both guys have played for.