One year ago on Wednesday, the Cleveland Cavaliers dealt Kyrie Irving to the Boston Celtics. The Cavs got back Isaiah Thomas, Jae Crowder, Ante Zizic and a first-round pick that eventually turned into Collin Sexton. This trade changed the face of the NBA.

The Cavaliers entire future changed following this trade. Isaiah Thomas didn't fit in with the roster and he was dealt after 15 games. He averaged 14.7 points and 4.5 assists per game with an effective field goal percentage of 41.8. These numbers were a steep drop from his numbers the previous year with the Celtics.

Conversely, the Celtics received an All-Star that could take the team to the next level. Irving's numbers in Boston were similar to how he performed in Cleveland. But his season was cut short after 60 games due to knee surgery.

This move probably significantly altered Cleveland's chances at re-signing LeBron James. It became clear early on last season that he lacked the number two option that could help him win a championship. Instead, James left for Los Angeles nearly a year after this trade.

So this trade did more than just bring the Celtics an All-Star point guard, it may have paved the way for Boston in the Eastern Conference. Without LeBron James on the Cavaliers, the East is wide open. Of course, the Philadelphia 76ers are looking to avenge their loss in the playoffs last season and the Toronto Raptors look formidable with Kawhi Leonard in the lineup, but Boston is certainly one of the favorites next season.