How come the nba seems like a scam?

teams get nothing in return for stars, and half the league has poor management. Its like the NBA wants the Lakers and Celtics to win. The trades are so lopsided, and with stars leaving small markets who would want to watch a game? the league is no fun teams cant even find talent from picks 6-29 there are exceptions but at least half the picks 6-10 in any years draft would be risky. Yes there are steals but would you feel comfortable with a player taken 23rd to lead your team to the playoffs or #1-5?