Houston was bad when they acquired Harden via trade (34-32). Boston was bad when they acquired Isaiah Thomas (25-57). Minnesota had a poor record when they acquired Butler (31-51). Rockets were trash when they acquired Lowry (23-43). New Orleans was bad when they acquired Cousins (34-48). All stars going to bad teams without being drafted there.

Lakers were awful and got Brook Lopez. Sixers were worse and signed JJ Redick. Utah signed a talented crop of veteran FA's last year while coming off a season where they missed the playoffs. Denver signed Paul Millsap this year after being under .500. Charlotte got ahold of Batum & Dwight in different poor-record seasons. Lin signed as a FA to the Nets. Harrison Barnes to Dallas, Noel traded there. These aren't even historical examples, they're here and now.

Of course winning teams are more alluring than losing teams. Just like more money is a better lure than less, but your categorization of potential lottery reform is hyperbolic.