by Digger

Shaquille O'Neal has been traded by the lame duck Miami Heat (NBA worst 9-38) to the Phoenix Suns (34-15). In return for Shaq, Miami receives forward Shawn Marion and guard Marcus Banks in a deal which stunned the NBA world.

Phoenix sports the NBA Western Conference best overall record and left many scratching their heads as to why President & GM Steve Kerr would make such a deal when his team is flying high? Marion is entering the prime of his career while Shaq is banged up and will certainly slow down a fast paced attack.

Perhaps, Phoenix rationale is from thinking their quick team isn't strong enough to make a run at the Championship without a big man crashing the boards and slamming dunks. However, with his fragile body chronic aches and pains, can Shaq help at all? Phoenix will soon find out if he helps or shakes up team chemistry.

Losing Marion will be felt for years to come and his presence will be sorely missed. Kerr gave up way too much for Shaq when he probably could have traded future draft picks ... or better yet... not made this deal at all.

Hopefully, Stevie will get to work soon updating his resume... he's going to need it after this 2007/08 season concludes.