I don't think the "desired locations" ever help or made a difference, Phil Jackson went to the knicks....they still struggling to get players to come there. I wanna say at the time Magic was coaching then got a higher up title. I don't remember much players wanting to play for the lakers at that time. Even now, i mean lebron chose to go to the lakers for business purposes it wasn't LA was the number 1 spot for most superstars. As we all know players just follow each other where ever.
and as far as boston not being a desire spot. Really perception is everything. Ainge is gone, as far as I know there is no dislike of B. Stevens from anyone. IF boston did some ish like hired a former player, a Hammon or Lawson or something like that, even stick a KG or some one of color in a more prompt role with Tatum continuing to ascend. It wouldn't take long for the Cs to be able to entice free agents to come to Boston and play. I dont see where the move is hard for people to understand. (Brad going up to the front office)