I think you're looking at it the wrong way, Z. Not saying that to be rude, but I think it's more appropriate to look at the transaction as obtaining the bird-rights of LBJ and CB4, so in essence the Heat could offer both players a bit more than they would have otherwise gotten had they signed as outright free-agents. This way, the players get paid more than they would have otherwise (and who doesn't want more money, really?), but still they leave some room for the Heat to sign some other decent players to fill out that roster.
What really makes no sense to me, though, is why the Heat would trade two first rounders for each player, but then go and give James and Bosh player options to terminate their deals after 4 years. That's... downright stupid from a business standpoint.
Although you have to love the situation you find yourself in if you are LBJ and Bosh; you have the next four years to become champions, while still having one more chance to get a max contract in your prime (both will be 29 in four years).
Anyways, I think first round picks in this trade are over-valued. Even with over-the-hill players, the Heat are going to compete for the top of the Eastern conference next year. That means a draft pick in about the 25-30 range. Frankly, those picks are terrible if you're looking for anything more than a potential rotational player. And, interestingly enough, there will always be teams (see Hornets, New Orleans) that are willing to sell their picks because of cheap owners. Considering their roster is gutted, it's not inconceivable that you could buy a pick in the late teens for a few (about 3 million) dollars.
The NFL: Where Greg Jennings Happens.