Yes, but the opening day roster is not your playoff roster. Not a particular fan of EF, but if he is the only option I would rather Brad make the deal rather than let the TPE expire - provided Wyc is still on board with using the tax payer MLE.Can't imagine them doing that, but at the same time, shouldn't the Celtics focus be on trying to find the player who best solves their needs and can contribute to a Championship run. As opposed to trying to pick up some future assets.
At a minimum Evan is matching salary for a deadline deal and you have an additional pick with which to make said deal. Plus he's a 1/2 of a season closer to being an expiring and could recoup some value. However, if acquiring him rules out using the MLE, then the calculus is different.