The report was that JC insisted on him, so not dumb luck.
Sure. But quickly pivoted when they had more data from SL. Drafting is not an exact science. I would not put it against them when they were able to pivot so quickly when they were able to see these guys in an NBA adjacent competitive environment.
DA was worth a try for a change of scenario situation - and it absolutely was worth a punt over keeping Nurk.
Sometimes a change of environment / role works out (see, PJ, M and Avdija, Deni), sometimes, it does not work (DA).
I think it was well worth the try - especially given how low on talent the team was. DA has talent. For Portland's situation, it was worth the gamble - even if it did not work.
Also, I absolutely love having to go back 3 months back in time to read what I wrote to remember what you refer to...