As I watch all of the games? I don't think the team will be significantly worse. This is not because Rondo isn't a superb player because he is and Dallas is now a far stronger threat in the playoffs, but, this team really is 9/10 guys who play well together. Stevens has an improved sense of how to play this group and for the rest of the season? I disagree with the "top 5 draft pick" predictions (which, of course is just more bad news).
Wright, if he doesn't get traded for the balance of the season improves our front court which, of course, doesn't take much and Smart/Turner will keep the team moving on the floor.
Ainge did not trade Rondo in order to get worse, specifically. He traded him to "get what he could before "that" became nothing."
Ainge held onto Rondo trying to get another star. It did not work. We witness "plan B" today.
My guess, from informed posts here, is the TPE is quite valuable and truly, is what might yield a legit asset going forward.
I always used to tell fellow fans to "just watch Rondo's hands for the whole game." Probably, one of the most amazing handles ever.