Good post. I'll take that one step further -- it isn't about replacing Eli's production, because he had an unbelievable season and was the focal point of opposing defenses [and still produced].
It is instead about replacing SOME of his production [i.e., outside shooting, versatility, defense, etc.] with an experienced, athletic player who can step right into the lineup, and take some pressure off of the rest of the team, who will have to shoulder a bigger portion of the load now that Eli won't be part of the lineup.