This trade is designed to maximize the value that the Celtics can get out of Tristan Thompson and Evan Fournier. (Trading Carsen Edwards because want him in a place where he has a shot at playing time.)

WHY THE PELICANS DO IT.

Thompson gives you 85% of what Steve Adams does but at 50% of the contract. Fournier gives them the outside shooter they desperately need. With the money they save-- they may be able to get Lowry to New Orleans.

WHY THE KNICKS DO IT

The Knicks desperately need a point guard. They can get Ball at about 2/3 the cost of Lowry. Also, the Knicks still will have cap room to be a player in next year's free agency.

WHY THE CELTICS DO IT

The Celtics use some of their trade exception to make a slight upgrade at Center. Adams is a good player but a bad fit in New Orleans. They are able to get a few 2nd round picks to draft a guy and stash him in Europe.

It leaves the Celtics with a playoff rotation of.

S. Adams J. Tatum J. Brown R. Langford M. Smart

BENCH

A. Horford R. Williams III A. Nesmith P. Pritchard G. Williams

This team has enough talent if a few players max out their potential to win a championship. Also-- by adding Adams and Horford the Celtics add some much needed experience.