SHAQ JOINS LEBRON
The Cleveland Cavaliers acquired center Shaquille O'Neal from the Phoenix Suns for center Ben Wallace, forward/center Aleksandar Pavlovic, a second-round draft pick in 2010 and cash considerations.
What does it give the Cleveland Cavaliers
In Shaq the Cavs have a true power player who can compete with the Dwight Howards and Pau Gasols of the NBA. Cleveland was bounced from the East finals this postseason by Orlando because of an inability to match up with Howard, and while O'Neal is no longer in his prime, he bounced back strongly last season from seeming decline. Even at three-quarters of his former MVP self, Shaq is a huge presence in the paint.
What does it give the Phoenix Suns
Phoenix above all gets to clear some salary cap space. Sending O'Neal's massive contract to the Cavaliers will save them 'at least $10 Million,' according to the Arizona Republic, which says Pavlovic will be waived; and that if Wallace (who may retire) also accepts a buyout, the savings could be even more. On the court, Shaq will be missed, but the Suns can at least get back to their old run-first style and Amare Stoudemire will have more room to operate in the post.
Fantasy impact
