Regarding the speculation that DL would have given up a 2nd for a trade exception, that would be fine if true. But the scenario we were discussing is very different. Many naive fans believe that Hayward should have used his leverage to force Ainge's hand to force an SNT. The SNT structure would be a win only for the Jazz (a win-blank). Why would Ainge even waste his time structuring that deal, when he just signs Hayward? If DL offered an asset (e.g., 2nd rounder) for the SNT, that is a completely different scenario.
Goodwill does have value, but have you ever seen a GM give up an asset for free just to help his buddy? There has to be some tangible value in return.
Like I said its not giving up an asset. If it hurt Boston in anyway I understand why he didnt do it. But if it was indifferent to them then its just being spiteful and unwilling to cooperate. If the only reason he didnt do it is because its extra paperwork that is pretty lol worthy and a silly reason. Also it could have helped Boston to do a sign and trade. Instead they had to do a different deal to create space.
Also if this deal was isolated maybe it was just how it worked out but Ainge is notorious for burning bridges in the NBA and a disliked GM by other teams.