All that can be true: the pairing is working far better than expected, trade value is increasing, OP was talking about just this season, media is speculating etc.

None of that changes the fact that there will be enormous pressure to make moves because of payroll. Gobert, KAT, Naz Reid, Jaden McDaniels and Edwards on a max will all be getting paid next season. For a team that is valued 29th out of 30 that is simply not sustainable, especially when paying Naz Reid replicates some of KAT’s skill set.

Another point: it’s the media’s job to speculate? It’s also your front offices job to talk to other teams and agents to gauge value, which typically reveals something about what their strategies may be. In any case, you are merely speculating about what they may or may not be doing which is hilariously hypocritical.

Not sure why you’re getting downvotes, that has always been the underlying reason why a trade has been expected.

Very unfortunate timing for Connelly making this move then having the harsher luxury tax restrictions come into effect