Brooklyn Nets Receive: C Jonas Valanciunas, G Devonte’ Graham, F/C Larry Nance Jr., 2023 First-Round Pick (LAL via NOP)

New Orleans Pelicans Receive: G Kyrie Irving

This is not, on paper, a fair value return for the Brooklyn Nets. We need you to know that we know that.

With that said, NBA games are not played on paper. If talent alone determined trade value, Irving would fetch a substantially larger return than this. Unfortunately for the Nets, they’re played on the hardwood.

Irving creates problems. Whether you care to admit it or not, that’s a fact. He doesn’t show up to work. He disrupts team chemistry. For those reasons, he simply doesn’t have the same trade value as other NBA superstars.

Given all of his flaws, the Nets are still getting a fair back here. Three quality rotation players and a potentially valuable pick are nothing for them to thumb their noses at.

LATEST NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Updates On Kyrie Irving, New Orleans Pelicans & Brooklyn Nets

It may not be the type of return you expect for a superstar, but it’s something.

Is it enough?