I was consistent in saying 1.5 unprotected picks... there is a difference. I stated it at least twice. 1 unprotected and 1 protected is basically 1.5 unprotected picks. Its right in line with what I stated.
Unprotected picks are worth twice as much as protected ones... I don't think that is a wild assumption.
I think the Jazz prefer package #1 too... so if they both agree you execute the deal. I think there is at least a chance that the Knicks prefer to give package #2 for the sake of flexibility. If they value him more than this, then the Jazz will very much prefer the non-RJ package.
There is some hesitancy on an extension for Barrett... if that last sentence were true they would have extended him already and taken him off the table. They need RJ to play well to retain his value... That's going to be difficult with Donovan, Jalen, Randle all requiring shots too.
I think they have hit a stalemate as Ainge really only cares about unprotected picks per some reports... Knicks don't want to go to 4 and maybe Ainge won't compromise on 3... so then 2 and RJ becomes an alternative... or it becomes the selling point to the fanbase "we had to give up 4 picks but we kept RJ out". If the reporting had stayed consistent that we weren't interested in RJ then it changes the negotiations a bit. I do think Danny would settle in on 2 unprotected picks RJ and stuff or see it as at least equivalent or better than 3 unprotected picks and stuff. That is where the rubber hits the road in these negotiations.
