The Cavaliers Decide to Shaq-Up

Shaq-in Up

By Austin Weatherington

As the Orlando Magic pretentiously celebrated their Game Six win over the favorite Cleveland Cavaliers, the image of LeBron James stalwartly walking off the court, disregarding the well wishes, and congratulatory activity toward his opponents signified one thing; pure resentment.

The usual sportsmanlike approach, which has, at times been seen as his detriment, was no where to be found.  The message to the Cavaliers organization was obvious: Do something, and do it fast.

Danny Ferry and Co. little time in taking action. Rumors of Amare Stoudemire, Chris Bosh, and Rasheed Wallace all wilted, as the organization chose to go with, (cynicism aside) the most dominant player in NBA history, Shaquille Rashaun O’Neal.

After flaunting the league’s best record: 66-16, and LeBron James doing his best Oscar Robertson impersonation, the Cavaliers seemed primed for postseason triumph. As the playoffs got underway, the Cavs picked up right where the regular season left off, sweeping the first two rounds against Detroit and Atlanta.

Their Conference Final foes happened to be the NBA sleeper Orlando Magic. Behind Dwight Howard, Hedo Turkoglu, and Rashard Lewis, The Magic were able to use the rare combination of size, speed, and shooting ability, which caused nightmare-ish matchup problems for the Cavaliers uninspiring front court, as Orlando boldly booked the Cavaliers “fishing” ticket.

With the Acquisition of O’Neal, the Cavaliers will now be able to offer the same nightmare-ish matchup problem. Granted O’Neal is not the backboard shattering terror that he once was; but last season’s clip still shows that he can play this game ( 17.8 ppg 8.4 rpg in 75 games).

Teams will be forced to figure out a way to contain Lebron’s slashing, Mo Williams, and Delonte West’s perimeter prowess and on top of all that, trying to control O’Neal--not to mention the Cavs have a first class bench.

Furthermore, the Diesel’s playful attitude will do nothing but compliment the already good-humored Cavaliers (I can see the warm up line antics now). The partnership is also good for the NBA, with two of the leagues most renowned talents, who possess equally charming personalities; suiting up for the same team.

All critically aside, as a fan this is what you love to see. Two of the NBA’s beloved, together in quest of a championship--and if Kobe Bryant and Dwyane Wade are any evidence; this is a match made in heaven.