I don't think this is true though....IMO, there's never be a reason not to have Noel or Thompson in the game. It sacrifices too much defense.
And honestly, even if he averaged 20 mins a night, it'd be great for this team. Kid is an absolute monster on defense....truth be told, TT might be in same situation if he got caught in that dumpster fire of an organization like Philly. TT has made a shitload of money off LeBron.....and that's cool. Noel would be seen at a level of Thompson or better IMO, with LeBron on the court. Noel is a defensive freak with better athleticism than TT and 2 inches taller with a much better reach.
I like TT....but let's not act like he hasn't generated a shitload of value by playing next to one of the greatest of all time. IMO Noel gives you that same scrap-yard dog mentality with even more upside....
And he can be had for quarters on the dollar. The problem is, we don't even have those quarters, and if we did have those quarters it comes at a price in our weakest position. I get all that....but in right situation Nerlens Noel is a game-changing freak perfect in today's position-less basketball. I don't even think it's hyperbole to say he could defend Durant in spot minutes....TT can't even do that. Noel has a shitload of value in the right spot....admittedly his value IMO, rests solely with playing GS. I think Noel could have a major impact in that series....