Shaq to Cleveland?

Talks were once again brewing around a possible deal which would potentially send Shaq Diesel from Phoenix to the Cavs for Ben Wallace and G Sasha Pavlovic. Trade talks loomed earlier in the year regarding such a deal, and it is evident that the Cavs are still interested. The Suns are obviously looking to gain some sort of financial relief this offseason, in moving a contract of Big Shaq's caliber; a player who actually showed some signs of life despite his age last season. It seems like Shaq would be open to a trade as the big man looks to cement his NBA legacy by possibly playing alongside the best player in the world in Lebron James, as the Cavs attempt to fill the void which seemed to cost them a shot at an NBA Championship this year.

The deal seems to fit the leagues salary cap requirements, and the Suns could even potentially buy out the remainder of Ben Wallaces contract should he choose that route, while Pavlovic is only slated to make $4.9 Million, only of which $1.5 is guaranteed. The Cavs in return would finally get a dominant big man in O'Neal which they greatly lacked this past season. Lets face it, no team was scared of the Cavs big men in the paint. Lebron was the only one who really had any sort of paint prescense, and that's off offense he created for himself. Varajao, Ilgauskas,and Wallace combined still don't provide you with an offensive game that even an older Shaquille does. Shaq brings a big body to the low post that can bang with the likes of Dwight Howard, making the Cleveland perimeter attack that much more effective should he warrant a double team, not to mention he clogs the middle on defense as well.

After a dissapointing Eastern Conference Finals loss to the Magic, the Cavs NEED to shake things up a bit this offseason. I think this deal works out well for both teams. Although it may seam like Shaq is immortal, he's not going to be around the League forever. You can tell his interest and dedication is faltered at times, but I think a situation like the one in Cleveland could really motivate the big fella. If he can endure the cold weather, his presecense could just be what Lebron and the Cavs need to get over the hump and come out of the East next season. Phoenix would most likely keep there core in Amare, and Nash and be able to spend money on a noteable free agent if given the chance.

If anything, it's something to think about. I think this deal has a great chance of getting done, and as an NBA fan would be actually be interested in the result. It could slow down the offense and effect Lebrons rythm, or could beef up the middle and provide toughness to a team that clearly lacked during these playoffs. As far as Shaq is concerned, the only legacy that I forsee as being potentially tarnished by such a deal is Lebrons.