Yes. That pick will not be as good. Nets strength of schedule is not as hard as other teams. Also they seem to be winning as underdogs a lot more times than people thought they would
Plus, Kyrie will be better than anyone coming out that draft let’s be honest.
Last, the salary from the pick especially combined with lakers pick would have complicated the teams finances. We are already tight in salary. I’m guessing Resigning smart or rozier may not have been an option with the extra pick occupying mid to late lottery salary.