Shaq Now a Celtic
According to numerous sources, Shaq has decided to sign a free agent deal with the Boston Celtics that will pay him the veteran's minimum. Boston and Cleveland have reportedly not discussed any sign-and-trade options, in which case Cleveland would get a piece or two to their barren cupboard, but also would land Shaq a larger contract. The deal is worth about $3 million over two seasons.
The 15-time All-Star is also a four-time NBA champion who could be relied for the Celtics, more so than with the Cavs last season. With starting center, Kendrick Perkins, recovering from a knee-injury that could potentially sideline him until February, and Rasheed Wallace retiring earlier this summer, Shaq will be competing for minutes with Jermaine O'Neal. When Perkins returns and if Garnett can stay healthy, Boston may have one of the league's better frontcourts, albeit one of the oldest as well. But the front office has certainly addressed the need for big men in the Eastern Conference with Orlando and Dwight Howard, a Miami team with Chris Bosh.
Shaq averaged career-lows across the board last season with Cleveland- 23.4 minutes per game, 12.0 points, 6.7 rebounds and 1.2 blocks per contest.
He will be wearing #36 next season.
By President - Corey Ruff - 8-4-10
