About a month ago, it was reported that Irving had requested a trade from the Cavaliers, apparently not happy with coexisting with LeBron James , among other complaints.

It seemed clear that the Cavaliers would have to deal Irving, but rumors had centered around other teams — not Boston — until Tuesday evening.

But it’s too soon to rule out a return to his hometown, and Cleveland maybe just got better — if Thomas and Irving are similar players, then adding Crowder clearly gives the Cavaliers the edge.

Irving is clearly the better and younger long term prospect, and he would have posted stats similar to Thomas had he had the same free reign in a Brad Stevens-coached offense.

He’s always the worst defender on the court — through no fault of his own — and it’s sadly something that will hold back any team that strives to compete for championships.