In this case, the quality of the picks is actually higher than normal. Unprotected 27 and unprotected 31 from PHX are not too bad imo. Ironically, we traded high volume (3 picks for one) for a highly quality which is the opposite of what you’re implying here. The cost is high, but not because of the quantity.
Generally, picks are highly overvalued when you draft with them. But you also have to think about what you could trade them for. I question the trade more from the perspective of, “was this the best we could have done with that draft capital?”.
We’re still finding out how star contracts are going to be treated in the apron era. I wouldn’t say JJJ is a home run contract at all given his inconsistency. If he plays like he did last season, sure.