The Odd Thing About Shaquille O'Neal

There is no doubt that Shaquille O'Neal will go down as one of the greatest centers in  NBA history. Therefore, it should be no surprise that LeBron James wanted him in Cleveland regardless of his age. Shaq definitely brings championship experience to the Cavaliers.

Like many great players, Shaq has won multiple championships. He has won them in multiple cities. The other thing about him that is typical for a great player is that he has had another great player with him all the time. He started with Penny Hardaway. Then he went on to the soap opera relationship with Kobe Bryant.

In Miami, he had a much healthier relationship with Dwayne Wade. Then in his short stay in Phoenix, he worked with Steve Nash. Now he will have the opportunity to work with the King.

Shaq has also had tons of endorsements and many nicknames. So in many ways his career has been typical to that of other great players. So what is different about him than other greats?

When you think of Magic Johnson you immediately identify him with the Lakers. It is true that Michael Jordan played a couple years with the Wizards, but he will always be thought of as a Bull.

Shaq's resume is impressive and there is no taking that away. The only thing is that it is very atypical for a great player to become a journeyman. Being that he has gone from Orlando, to L.A., to Miami, to Phoenix, and now Cleveland, it is impossible to deny that he really has become a journeyman.

Does being a journeyman take away from his greatness? No way, but you just don't usually associate journeymen and greatness. It generally is not the case.

One would assume that Cleveland will be his last stop but you can't be certain about that. The interesting thing I want to see is what team he enters the Hall of Fame with.