Shaq

My friend called me right before the Blazer game started tonight and told me that Jarrett Jack would be starting.

Normally I would freak out at something like this. Simply put, it's a recipe for disaster, and at the very least it's an uncommon way to punish a player coming off a seven-turnover game by giving him a starting spot.

But I am still reeling from the Shaq news.

The Phoenix Suns traded Shawn Marion and Marcus Banks for Shaquille O'Neal.

Umm... WHAT?!?!?



For the Suns, I guess the thinking was that they were willing to sacrifice their future in exchange for a chance to win now. But the thing is, bringing Shaq into the mix doesn't increase their chances to win. At all.

Phoenix, as everybody knows, is fun run-and-gun, a team whose offense thrives on athleticism and dynamic fast breaks. Shawn Marion was a pivotal part of this Suns team, and a player who typified Phoenix's unselfish game and fast pace. Moreover, the Suns had no real reason to make a big move, as they currently have the best record in the Western Conference.

I've never been to Phoenix. Maybe it's too hot to think rationally about anything, even in early February. They're obviously thinking about the Spurs after trading for Shaq, but they're thinking about the matchup the wrong way. If having Shaq makes them match up more evenly with the Spurs, which is highly unlikely, that just means you're playing how the Spurs want you to play: slow, physical, inside. Phoenix won't beat the Spurs that way. You beat the Spurs with energy, youth, a fast pace, and brass knuckles. Shaq, by the way, is old and slow. You do the math.

I think this may be the only time where I completely agree with John Hollinger.

That's saying something.

Good luck Suns - you'll surely need it.

TJH