No NBA team wants to be on the wrong end of a sign-and-trade deal. 

They never get fair value for their outgoing player. The opposing team is only indulging them to acquire the player they want.

If the team with the restricted free agent refuses to cooperate, they’ll lose their guy for nothing. 

Sometimes, it’s unavoidable. If a team has a restricted free agent that they can’t afford long-term, they’re got to let them walk. If they can arrange a sign and trade, it’s better than nothing. 

This is the dilemma the Boston Celtics may find themselves in this summer. Grant Williams is a restricted free agent. The Celtics probably can’t afford him. 

Here’s a sign and trade that has him landing on the Phoenix Suns in exchange for Chris Paul.