Jerry Buss: Remembering the Greatest Owner In Sports

Having achieved everything the average man couldn’t, Dr. Jerry Buss had the Midas touch and turned the Los Angeles Lakers into gold for much of his life.

Never has there been a greater person in LA and a more likable businessman who not only mixed business with pleasure, but amazingly built an empire that turned stars into legends in a diverse community. It was where the “Showtime Era” was born and where he cultivated the tenor of American sports.

And, of course, he won 10 championships, just from his intellectual maneuvers and business acumen that never were called into question. Not once.

We’ve seen him come to life, smile and celebrate with bliss in the 80s when Magic Johnson led the Lakers. We’ve seen him raise a number of Larry O’Brien trophies and we have seen images of him getting drenched in champagne while rubbing his burning eyes during a wild party inside the locker room with those he pampered and rewarded.

So suddenly, as Buss has been ailing for quite some time, he met his expiration date and will leave a priceless organization behind for his children to take over and hopefully keep the winning tradition alive. Buss, who died of cancer Monday at age 80, was the heart and soul of the purple-and-gold.

When he bought the Lakers, the Los Angeles Kings, the Forum and the spacious ranch from Jack Kent Cooke in 1979 — with ambitions in rising to a fruitful businessman — he became one of the most influential and successful owners in pro sports, if not the best to ever purchase a franchise.

He was defined more than anything by his character and cleverness, embracing and living a remarkable life for which his fame and fortune was indescribable.

Before he created a legacy in Los Angeles, where he came to as a young boy, Buss lived a life of misfortunes and hardships in Wyoming. Before he made his home in LA, Buss shined shoes at the old Kemmerer Hotel and worked on the Union Pacific railroad to make ends meet.

When he died, Buss reminded us that dreams can come true and that anything is possible, if one continues to thrive and give it their all. But once he resided in Los Angeles for good, as Buss was an endearing mentor to Johnson and most of the players he employed, he kissed a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame and smiled with the trophy in his hands.

The death of Buss leaves behind an incredible legacy for the Lakers and a city that deeply respected what he did for Los Angeles when he was alive and well. He used his power and brains to build a flashy image in the realm of Hollywood.

The brand of basketball he produced for a long time manufactured an era of glamour and success. It must have been inspiring to Johnson, because he’s now the son of the city after establishing himself into a successful entrepreneur, opening up a Starbucks, T.G.I Friday’s restaurants and movie theaters in urban neighborhoods.

Meanwhile, Buss, who was entering the final stage of his life after battling with cancer, spent time with his friend Johnson in his room at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center not long ago. He lied in the bed fighting his battle and appeared to be low-spirited, but when Johnson entered the room and emotionally sat down by his good friend, Buss smiled and they both cried and shared memories for the last time.

While most of the fans in the second-largest city in the United States embraced the man for many years, Johnson and Buss had a bond that was unbreakable, the best relationship between a player and owner in pro sports.

At the end of his life, while friends and his kids remember him for building dynasties and teams into a form of excellence and professionalism, the Lakers will forever be known for winning 10 of their 16 NBA titles under Buss. Every time, we assumed it was business as usual when Buss, given his moral fiber and desire to win, invested and spent $67.5 million to buy the Lakers.

The team was his when he parlayed a $1,000 real estate investment to earn rights for the Lakers, for what is now a family-operated business. The game would be a cool experience for celebrities, but not for those who were unprivileged. Those courtside seats were too expensive, catering merely to folks who could afford to sit on the floor.

In looking to be original and unique, he hired an in-house band to perform during games, along with gorgeous women who dance during timeouts to entertain the audience. He called these cheerleaders the “Laker Girls”, and as we know, he was a shrewd merchant, almost like Hugh Hefner from the sports aspect of things.

This was some team, hotter than the females Buss dated. He was, to put it bluntly, a lady’s man, as he enjoyed partying with models and actresses. That, of course, was when he would be seen with women on his arms. Buss, as it was known, played high-stakes poker while he was the creator of the most entertaining pro basketball team.

It’s something everyone will remember about Buss. The folks of Prime Ticket tried to set up the network for cable premium packages, but Buss, since he co-founded the network, refused to allow that to happen and ordered that the network will be broadcasted from a basic package.

Buss and the Lakers were mentioned in the same breath as the late George Steinbrenner and the Yankees for what they accomplished as a beloved owner and team in a city where the Lakers embodied Los Angeles.

He was evidently intelligent from a young age, and applied it in the classroom. Buss earned his degree in just two-and-a-half years at the University of Wyoming, meeting his first wife there when he asked to borrow her textbook.

For Buss, it was never too late for education, so he received a Ph.D. in chemistry from USC and obtained an honorary doctrine in law at Wyoming in 2005. The best way to win is by spending and bringing in marquee players, especially in Hollywood. He knew what it took to win.

He assembled a winning product, following his own most valuable and workable traits, a palpable sense of anticipation every time he spent top-dollar to win championships.

It wasn’t strange to see such experiments. It was as if he was preparing for a science fair, exploring and trying to find the proper supplements to fit his talented roster. He seemed too powerful and too anxious. He was more likely to fire a coach if it didn’t work.

They’ve talked about the moment when Buss gave Magic Johnson a 25-year, $25 million deal in 1981, higher than what Kareem Abdul-Jabbar was earning, all from the same man who chose Kobe Bryant over Shaquille O’Neal and traded the big man to Miami in 2004.

The Lakers’ formula has worked for years, no matter what Buss tried or weighed with his brilliance and diplomacy, gambling on players and coaches and pulling off unthinkable deals that not too many franchises in the league could make possible. Either way, he’s figured out ways to win, and in any sport, winning titles is all that really matters. And he did that over and over again.

The Lakers, as always, are in contention, particularly when Buss made changes at the right time. Such is the time he fired Paul Westhand and gave the coaching job to a young assistant in Pat Riley, who led the Lakers to four consecutive NBA Finals appearances, winning all four times.

The worst thing he’s ever done was hire the sorriest coach in Lakers history in Randy Pfund, and again, it was only an experiment which barely lasted before he tried something that worked.

Like Johnson, Bryant became very close to Buss, despite his trade demands before the 2007-08 season. This has ought to be evidence that Bryant is a Laker for life, because not only is he a centerpiece of the Lakers, but he was Buss’ friend for life.

It’s officially the Jim Buss era now, though. Fans are probably wondering whether or not he can keep a winning franchise running strong, without advice and moves from his father.

The Lakers are in the hands of the Buss children, and after they were taught and experienced over the years on how to manage a business, we should only hope that they learned from their father to run the organization.

While his daughter, Jeanie, will run the Lakers’ business operations, Jim, who has been in charge of the team’s basketball operations, will continue to make personnel decisions.

Their father, Jerry, was a winner and will continue to be in heaven. The gates opened Monday morning for Mr. Buss, with layers of purple-and-gold carpet.

Lakers Must Get Rid of Dwight Howard To Avoid Any More Drama

There’s an entire city that knows just what to expect, used to the futility and long suffering, used to the phoniness and broken promises. It’s because Dwight Howard is unhappy with the team and his teammates and couldn’t care less about the Los Angeles Lakers, pouting about the number of touches and finding convenient excuses to sit out a game as he supposedly nurses an injury.

Not much makes me frown, but Howard makes me cringe and it’s nauseating to watch him nightly as people describe him as the most dominant center of our generation when clearly he has not lived up to the expectations and has not challenged himself to emerge into an NBA superstar and hero forevermore.

By now, it’s clear, assuming from his lethargy and torpidity, that he’s unfit to wear a Lakers uniform, not the man for the team, not the Lakers’ future and certainly not the unquestioned leader once Kobe Bryant walks from the game.

Bryant is unparalleled, never to be replicated in LA, a scorching scorer and marksman whose accomplishments will forever leave behind an enduring legacy in an era when he scored 81 points in a single game and in an age when he’s been a clutch performer.

In addition, Bryant has drilled an array of buzzer-beaters and led the Lakers to two NBA titles without the services of his longtime sidekick, Shaquille O’Neal.

The fact of the matter is, ladies and gentleman — to put it simply — that we won’t ever witness another Kobe Bryant. Much as the Buss family hopes to see Howard evolve into the next star on the red carpet, he’s realistically not too pleased when he’s on the floor, he’s not satisfied and seemingly wants to play elsewhere — maybe in Brooklyn, Atlanta, Dallas or even Oklahoma City but surely not here in LA.

So why even try to hold on to the self-proclaimed Superman who is not even a man of steel? It’s time the Lakers listen to trade offers and move the disappointing center, especially for someone who has not done much for the team since his arrival and spent ample time on the sideline with an injury.

At age 27, he has no clue where he wants to play, he’s confused and wishy-washy, unable to make up his damn mind. One minute he’s happy to be a Laker, the next he’s miserable and depressed.

He very easily could be a bust who has compelled us to buy into the unnecessary hype here in Los Angeles with everybody still mesmerized by his sensational dunk in the NBA slam dunk contest, which technically wasn’t a dunk, all while donning a Superman T-Shirt and cape.

It’s been a disappointing season, dare I say it, for Howard and the Lakers as a unit, searching for answers as to why the team is struggling and unexpectedly might miss the playoffs as the regular season is months away from drawing to a close.

But for some reason, probably because he reigns dominant and was supposed to be the Lakers next big man to follow the footsteps of Kareem Abdul-Jabbar and O’Neal, he’s not putting in effort — healthy or unhealthy — and stands underneath the basket without grabbing a rebound or without slamming it down over smaller opponents.

In other words, he’s not the player as advertised and fans no longer care if he walks or not at the end of the season. Seems Lakers supporters are encouraging the Buss family to trade the three-time defensive player of the year.

What a complete lazy slob, huh? He’s not a supplementary player. He’s a cancer to the team, an absolute toxic waste, polluting the Pacific waters and rashly upsetting a large population in Lakerland, a place he’s doubted and suddenly disliked by the vast majority. In retrospect, Howard’s enigma and flakiness may have ended his run with the Lakers.

But some believe he will remain with the team at least until the end of the season, probably because Lakers general manager Mitch Kupchak said he will not trade Howard. Forgive me if I’m too harsh on Howard — but I feel he won’t ever be a dominant center in the league.

When he came to LA, everybody thought he was finally glad and grateful for a change of scenery. Turns out, he’s still the whiny brat we once knew in Orlando, the same crybaby who annoyed basketball lovers — including the Orlando Magic front office.

But all it shows is that nobody can ever run from their problems and can only take their issues wherever they go — different state or city — none of that matters. It also shows that he’s not matured, not a strong leader and still has dire need for improvement in his free throws and with his mental toughness under the basket. Until then, he won’t ever be a star in the NBA.

TRUTH!!!

Jim Buss, co-owner of the Lakers, gambled and might regret bringing him on board to gel with Bryant and the gang, but he was misleading and wanted to contend for a title and accepted a trade from Orlando to Los Angeles, a place he initially had no intentions playing for the first day he arrived.

Not once has he sworn to wear purple and gold next season — and never said he’d like to be a Laker for life. Now, he’s becoming NBA’s annoying diva, roughly a nuisance who is an absolute turnoff if nothing else at this very moment, drawing so much attention for his injuries and endless feuds with Bryant allegedly.

Word on the street is that he and Bryant almost came to blows in the locker room with tensions boiling over to add to the messy circumstances that have had an affect on the team’s porous performance all season. He’s not totally committed to LA, and without a doubt, there’s not a mutual marriage between Howard and the Lakers, just not.

It’s not an ideal Hollywood makeover, and just from his body language and bad decorum, he won’t be in LA much longer. There’s a feeling that both the Lakers and Howard will cut ties and go their separate ways. That’s what every Lakers’ fan should hope for real soon, and every fan across the Southland should be imploring for the team to orchestrate a Howard trade.

In LA, he’s unwanted, he’s unwelcome and seems to not care whether the Lakers win or lose, looking for every excuse to leave after this season before he can even say goodbye next summer, which is quickly nearing. The Lakers, as they’ve done precisely in the past, traded players but unwisely dealt those who were valuable and contributed in some way.

So now would be the time, as NBA’s trade deadline is coming to a close, to phone Nets general manager Billy King for sole possession of the big man. The resident of Los Angeles wishes he was a resident of Brooklyn — to be quite honest.

Truth be told, after sharing the ball with Bryant and having to be the team’s second-option, he’s erratic and moody. When you think about it, Bryant attempts way too many shots sometimes, unwilling to trust in his teammates and believes he has no choice but to ball hog in order for the Lakers to win a ballgame.

It’s too often that his selfishness has thwarted the Lakers. It’s too often that Howard is petulant and overwrought because of Bryant’s ego and lack of generosity at times.

But, either way, that is, it’s now time to trade Howard. Make that quick and fast. Make that right now. Even after Kupchak said he has no intentions in trading his overrated superstar, once it became apparent that Howard has not given it his all, the Lakers can trade him to the Nets in exchange for Brook Lopez and multiple pieces.

They could also send him to Atlanta, his native home, for Josh Smith and additional players. In many ways — mind you — it would appease both players when Smith desperately wants out of Atlanta and when it seems Howard wants out of LA.

Sure he’s telling us he’s happy with Bryant. Sure he’s brainwashing us with the notion that he’s committed to a storied franchise. Sure he says he will sign long-term when questions are still lingering about his future as a Laker.

But, as we’ve seen in the past, NBA players or any professional athlete for that matter lies and then when free agency suddenly comes around they leave for another team that was willing to give them what they asked for. He’s got a lot to learn about the game, about getting along with his teammates and peers.

With this team, as there is just so much star power and talent, it seems like he and Pau Gasol cannot play together. It could precisely be because of Mike D’Antoni, whose peculiar, up-tempo offense is detriment to his players.

It’s definitely hard to tell whether or not Bryant and Howard’s relationship is getting better, although they seem to be working out their problems and getting over a recent fallout. But he’s still a shadow of his teammate Bryant, as Howard recovers from his surgically repaired back and says he’s only 75 percent.

On top of that, he’s plagued by a shoulder injury as well, and missed a few games with pain in the shoulder but finally returned and managed to play through it. Some are fine with Howard averaging 16.2 points and 11.7 rebounds, while others aren’t pleased with his lack of intensity that has overshadowed his decent numbers.

Meanwhile, Howard has the leverage and dictates what he does, as far as on the court and off the court. The Lakers do not have the upper hand and won’t have it until they decide enough is enough and trade the big man to end the fuss and unnecessary drama that has killed the Lakers reassuring season.

He knows the ball is in his court and has been unhappy with the number of touches, begging for the ball in his spot under the basket where he can be dominant when he wants. For now, he’s demanding what he wants and controls his own terms.

He’s more powerful than the Lakers.

It’s a Dwightmare in Hollywood and the way to end it is by getting rid of the drama queen.

Dwight Howard To Hollywood: Lakers Soar Into Prime Contention

The Buss family, especially Jim, the son of Jerry who is running an operation out of Los Angeles, negotiated and somehow landed Dwight Howard in Hollywood. The Los Angeles Lakers, whose recipe for success is constant rebuilding with blockbuster moves, satisfied their star guard Kobe Bryant, surrounding him with star power and plenty of talent to suddenly emerge as favorites in the West.

It’s a no-brainer, after a four-team trade sent Howard to L.A. and after the Lakers super-sized their roster to regain strength and aspiration — as always — that the Lakers are in contention for an NBA championship. The embarrassment the Lakers sustained the last two seasons impetuously drove the Busses to revamp and make certain they stay at the top to contend in the postseason. The Dwightmare is finally over, and folks all over can breathe a sigh of relief, particularly fans donning purple and gold attire who are lucky to have D12 arrive at Hollywood, where he fits in rather perfectly. After all, he’s an entertainer, a solid performer when he chooses to be and earned the “Superman” moniker from his days in Orlando.

Put aside all the rumors. Put aside all the speculations and tired trade sagas. Willingly and merrily, he’s leaving the Sunshine State to relocate to a new address in Los Angeles — off Figueroa Street and Chick Hearn Court — and respectfully steps into the spotlight, welcomed to his new home immediately with a chance to contend for a title with a team demanding to continue a winning tradition. Not surprising, however, that the Lakers acquired Howard from Orlando to make Thursday’s headlines, when he’s been seen around Los Angeles. It’s evident he enjoys the glamour of five-star restaurants and luxury hotels in a town where he’s now famously known as the Lakers’ seven-foot center, or rather remarkably, a superhero who is already idolized, although L.A. fans booed Howard during a ballgame at Dodger Stadium when the Jumbotron showed him standing outside of a stadium suite. And then he was also spotted walking out of a Beverly Hills hotel.

Like Randy Newman and most celebrities, Howard LOVES L.A., realizing he’s joined the Lakers, an assembled team with a nucleus of talent. After adding Howard to the roster, the magnitude of L.A. pro sports centers around the Lakers, whose starting lineup features NBA’s finest studs in Bryant, Metta World Peace and Steve Nash. Pau Gasol, who is also an elite megastar for the Lakers, was ecstatic and relieved he wasn’t traded elsewhere when he’s been floating in trade rumors for months and likely was one of the players to be moved as part of a blockbuster deal. Meanwhile, Howard is, at long last, out of Orlando. He is, at long last, glad to be putting on a Lakers uniform. He is not, at long last, disgruntled or unhappy with a change of scenery, coming to an established team destined to make a strong championship push.

The Lakers, suddenly, are very interesting. The offseason was, for the most part, chaotic and tumult with a lingering saga hijacking the summer as 24/7 coverage on Howard annoyed fans. When he demanded to be traded — with all indications that he wanted to call Brooklyn home — the Lakers, as they should have, phoned the Orlando Magic organization and listened to offers. It was frustrating for months, as the Magic and Howard weren’t sure what their intentions were as to whether or not the self-proclaimed Superman desired staying in Orlando until he became a free agent after next season. It was telling the Lakers were old and stagnant, and were in dire need of younger and fresher legs to keep up with teams like the Miami Heat and Oklahoma City Thunder in the open floor. Having said that, the Lakers continue to bring in the missing pieces to blend in well alongside Bryant, who still wants to be bestowed a championship ring, as they are now in position to win a championship.

Before Nash and Howard joined the company of Bryant and the gang, the Lakers were devoid of athleticism with an aging Kobe well past his prime. As he continues to age, Bryant can’t score as much as he used to nor can he play as hard as he used to when he was well in his prime. The folks in the front office knew they had to sooner than later be proactive and build around one of the greatest scorers in the game, as a way to put a smile on Kobe’s face to avoid any feuding. Remember, years ago he demanded a trade and essentially — if you believe everything you read and hear — was supposed to end up finishing his fantastic career in the Windy City, where he’d have played in the shadows of Michael Jordan and would’ve had tremendous pressure to fill the shoes of a legend. Had it not been for Kobe’s pouting and whining, which may have been a brilliant strategy that forced the Lakers to head into a new direction, they wouldn’t have pursued in a deal to acquire Gasol from Memphis.

Right now, though, the newest Laker is Howard. The deal is officially done, and the Lakers look forward to raising a 17th championship banner into the rafters at Staples Center with a celebration on their minds. In many ways — that is — we simply understand the Lakers’ motives and philosophies. The thing is, if there is a talked-about big man available who is dominant to prolong excellence in the modern era, the Lakers don’t hesitate and finds a way to get him. Quite often, as we’ve seen for decades, the Lakers have turned sizable big men into legends, relying on a dominant inside presence and high-profile centers — Wilt Chamberlain, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, George Mikan and Shaquille O’Neal.

Truth be told, the Lakers were aggressive and refused to pass on a lifetime offer that could benefit the team in the long run. It’s tough to be in Mitch Kupchak’s position, but the Lakers general manager wasn’t letting Howard get away and amazingly pulled of another steal, certainly in conversations to be named NBA Executive of the Year. It wasn’t long ago, when he blundered on botched maneuvers and dismantled the team briefly, that he was a puppet on strings unable to have a word in the personnel decisions, as Buss dictated the direction of his franchise. They both needed a wake up call, which occurred when the Lakers were dispatched in the second round for the second straight year with a five-game loss to the Thunder last season.

The reality of it all was that the Lakers couldn’t win with their current roster, badly and seriously needing an overhaul to revitalize a broken team in the City of Angels. The reality of it all was that the Lakers couldn’t survive after embarrassing losses that resulted in early playoff exits. The Lakers wasted no time to rectify the problem, and wisely addressed their top priority by strengthening the point guard position, bringing in two-time NBA MVP Steve Nash to considerably form a scintillating backcourt combination. This is what happens when a team is humiliated in the postseason and continues to fall victim to blowouts, a prominent franchise that upgraded its team to make a run at the championship.

It was nice of the rival Phoenix Suns to reach an agreement on a sign-and-trade that sent Nash to Los Angeles. The only solution, then, was for the Lakers to trade center Andrew Bynum for Howard. They had conversations over the phone, trying hard to whisper sweet things in Rob Hennigan’s ears, Orlando’s newly minted GM. It took a four-team, eight-player deal to get it done, and while the Lakers have improved overnight it seems, the 76ers ended up with Bynum and will now have a low-post presence to create shooting opportunities for Evan Turner and Jrue Holiday. The other team involved was Denver and they picked up Andre Iguodala, a swingman whose presence can sharpen the Nuggets’ perimeter defense.

On the day the Lakers welcomed home Howard, it was a day the Lakers waved goodbye to Bynum, as his services were no longer needed. Either he was consistent or inconsistent. Either he was lousy or effective. And with Howard, as the team’s next big man, the Lakers think they can actually succeed with him in the lineup — they are doing whatever it takes to win. That explains why they have a multitude of NBA titles, why they are either loved or loathed and why Lakers’ games are national televised regularly. This is what happens when an NBA team consists of an array of stars. We are infatuated with stars and love our superstars, as many Americans revere these idols, madly obsessed with the Bryants, the Howards, the Nashes and other attractive figures who are marketable and winners.

As for the Lakers, they make moves to win NOW. The Lakers, as usual, are eyeing a gleaming trophy. It’s all about winning championships, and each year L.A. is normally in contention, rarely missing the postseason. If the Lakers do miss the postseason, they aren’t down very long and eventually return to the playoffs and makes a deep run to be a menace in the West, like they will now. The Lakers, ladies and gentlemen, are back and could have a 70-plus-win season, especially with Kobe and Nash’s veteran leadership. It’s their 17th season in the league, but they both can still play at a high level as the new 30 and older is the new 20 and younger. The gravity of an NBA championship is within reach, and with the Howard acquisition, anything can happen. It’s still surreal that Howard will make Hollywood his home, when becoming a Laker didn’t ever seem feasible, until three days ago. And before then, he was flirting with the Nets and the Rockets, without the Lakers even being on his list. But now that he’s with the Lakers, he doesn’t regret it and appears to be in high spirits.

Howard will be a free agent at the end of next season, and said he’s testing the market. There’s nothing wrong with exploring options, but he won’t be going anywhere after next season if the Lakers have a deep playoff run and wins a championship. He realizes that he can win multiple titles in L.A. and celebrate alongside Bryant, who is by far the best player of this generation. If Howard is playing for championship rings, then he knows L.A. is the right place.

Luck of the Irish: Shaquille O’Neal Joins Boston Celtics for Shot at Title

 

The Boston Celtics added a new face (albeit a familiar one) to their team.

It’s a face that Celtics fans in the past probably weren’t all that thrilled to see. This is because the face I’m referring to belongs to Shaquille O’Neal.

For a good part of his illustrious career, the “Big Diesel” as he’s known to his fans, played for one of Boston’s most hated rivals, the defending champion Los Angeles Lakers. And despite the fact Shaq’s Lakers never faced the Celtics in the NBA Finals like the Showtime Lakers of the 80’s, that old time rivalry still infused the more recent teams with bitter feelings toward each other.

Simply put, no self-respecting Boston fan would have ever done anything but root against those Los Angeles teams O’Neal played for.

Because of those years in La-La Land, Shaq is one of the most familiar athletes on the planet. His endorsement deals cover the gamut of merchandise, from books, to clothes and shoes, and even to video games.

From his beginnings with the Orlando Magic, shattering backboards and teaming up with “Penny” Hardaway, he was seen as one of the most lovable characters in the NBA. This led to some “regrettable” movie roles, as well as his dipping his toes in the rap record industry (again, regrettably). Yet, regardless of his failures in those mediums, he was still loved by his fans, as his quotes and playful interaction with his fans endeared him.

Not so in Boston. As stated above, Celtics fans saw all things from “Lakerland” as the enemy, even the lovable Shaq Daddy.

Yet, that attitude the Boston fans had toward “The Big Aristotle” as he’s known to his fans began to be the view held by many throughout the land once he first went to the Miami Heat to win a title with Dwyane Wade, and then was eventually traded to the Phoenix Suns, and then traded one last time to the Cleveland Cavaliers.

Somewhere along the way he wasn’t the most lovable or loved player in the NBA anymore.

A lot of this likely had to do with his eroding skills, but a great deal of it also had to do with the way he was being perceived because of comments he made about teams and teammates he’d formerly played with, including Dwyane Wade.

Wade, who he’d once called “Wonder Boy” in a subtle attempt to belittle Dwyane’s abilities, along with LeBron James, Kevin Durant, and even another former teammate whose talents he’d tried to disparage, Kobe Bryant, were all being shown more love and respect than “Superman”.

When he’d finished the 2009-10 season, many considered him “too old” for the game, and unneeded.

I myself never understood this, for even at 38, there are plenty of teams that could still use an active big body like his in the paint. In my opinion, even with his skills severely diminished, he’s still a great deal more talented than most of the centers in the NBA.

Apparently the Boston Celtics agreed with my assessment, as they signed Shaq to a two-year deal to join forces with Paul Pierce, Kevin Garnett, Ray Allen, and Rajon Rondo.

After Kendrick Perkins was injured during the NBA Finals, and it was learned he would be out for a significant portion of next season recovering, the Celtics were desperately in need of a big man. Add to their plight the fact Rasheed Wallace had decided to retire, and it was easy to see they needed help in the middle.

The first thing they did was sign O’Neal. Not Shaq, but former Miami Heat player Jermaine O’Neal. With Jermaine on the roster, they felt confident they could get by till Perkins return, and that’s telling in regard to the Shaq signing. They were not in any way shape or form desperate any longer.

Yet, they still signed Shaq.

Why? Because, as stated above, Shaq is a great active big body who is (even with his skills eroding) better than most big men in the NBA.

Truth be told, I think most would agree that had Boston had the Big Diesel on their team when Perkins went down in the Finals, O’Neal would have easily been able to contain Andrew Bynum and/or even Pau Gasol to some degree. Rasheed Wallace was pretty good stepping in for Kendrick, but Shaq would have prevented the Lakers from dominating so much on the boards and the Celtics, in my opinion, would have won the series.

Celtics co-owner Wyc Grousbeck seems to agree with that thinking, as he recently stated, “If we get to another Game 7 down the line, I’m sure we will be glad we have Shaq on the team.”

Now, signing Shaq gives Boston five players who are above 30 years of age, all of whom will likely be Hall-of-Famers. Some may believe that is to their detriment. I, on the other hand don’t think it will hinder Boston whatsoever.

I believe it doesn’t matter what their ages are, because when the game is on the line, they can all still dominate and destroy you if they feel it.

Adding Shaq to the mix with the group of Paul Pierce, Ray Allen, Kevin Garnett, and Rajon Rondo is going to make the Celtics an instant challenger to the “supposed” dominance the Miami Heat and their “Three Kings” will enjoy in the NBA Eastern Conference.

Add Jermaine O’Neal to the mix, along with Glen “Big Baby” Davis and Avery Bradley, and the eventual return of Kendrick Perkins, and Boston is going to have a very intimidating frontcourt this coming season. I think Celtics coach Doc Rivers is probably just as excited as most Boston fans, as is evidenced by his recent statement:

“I am very excited. Adding a player like Shaq is a major plus and it fills a void for our team. He’s a real nice piece of the puzzle and he will complement us in where we want to go this coming season.”

I think it’s easy to see that he’s finding his decision to return to coach the Celtics is paying off. I don’t think he’d want to miss out on the following season for anything, since he’s going to have probably the best shot since Boston first formed the “Big 3” to win a title this coming year.

Sure, the Heat are considered the favorite by many, but Boston just might really be the team to beat this coming season. If Miami can gel quickly they’ll be formidable, but if it takes them a little while to get it all together, the veteran leadership and experience of the Celtics could win out in the end; at least this next year.

I think Rajon Rondo and other young players for the Celtics will probably enjoy learning from Shaq as well. I’m sure he has plenty of wisdom he can dole out to them, and probably won’t be in the least bit afraid to dispense it in his usual jovial and playful manner.

For his part, Shaq seems ready to take on any role he is called on for in order to help Boston return to glory. As he said, “I am honored to be joining the Celtics. I have played against Paul, Ray, Kevin, Rajon, and Jermaine for many years, and it will be great to be able to call them teammates. I cannot wait to get to Boston to get started in pursuit of another championship.”

Of course, it’s been three years since Boston won a title. They were close to winning one last season, but in the end faltered in that quest. I’m sure Boston management hopes Shaq is the final piece to the puzzle that will give them what they need this coming year to bring home another Larry O’Brien Trophy.

As Celtics president of basketball operations, Danny Ainge, had to say, “It is not every day that you can add a player of Shaquille’s caliber to your team. His past experience speaks for itself and we believe that he is a great fit for our roster.”

Now that O’Neal has officially joined the Celtics, he’s getting a lot of love from many fans who formerly looked upon him as the enemy. There’s even a contest trying to come up with his newest nickname, with “The Big Shaqrock” (referring to Shamrock) and “The Big Leprechaun” leading the votes so far.

One famous fan of the Celtics, Boston’s own David “Big Papi” Ortiz who plays for the Red Sox, seems to love that Shaq is now in Boston. As he said excitedly during batting practice before a game against the Cleveland Indians, “Hey, Shaq is here!”

He definitely is, and it’s probably going to take many a while to get used to seeing him in a Celtics uniform like in the photoshopped picture above.

Yet, there was a small moment there when even Shaq himself probably thought he wouldn’t be signed by anyone, and that he would never play another NBA game again.

I guess the luck of the Irish was with him, and he now has a #36 Boston Celtics uniform to don, as he goes forward, bleeding green proudly.

After Wild Blowout Over Celtics, Cavs Victory Remains Inevitable

In a speechless, cheerless, fatigued venue at downtown Boston, a Nightmare on Causeway Street embodied the worst-case scenario, forging a horror movie in a sporting town known for winning its fair share of titles in pro basketball.

Of the thousands sitting nervously in the stands, who stared in hopes of witnessing the resurgence of the Boston Celtics, observed a massacre when a believable evening turned into a pulverizing beat down.

It’s common to postulate that LeBron James is harmless and certain to botch at any given situation nursing a sore elbow, an injury downsizing his mental mindset to drive as if he’s invincible or limiting his ability to draw contact under the rim and be awarded a three-point opportunity.

The world is obligated to know LeBron’s next destination, if the Cleveland Cavaliers fail to win a title during his reign, just as the world is obsessed with the worldwide icon for his breathtaking exhibits and impact within a professional league of blossoming superstars.

He’s compared to Michael Jordan and wears his jersey No. 23, but what’s unique about James is that he’s a refined sporting figure and embraced globally.

Because he’s precautious about his bruised elbow, then maybe he’s not as effective or electric of dashing to the paint protecting himself of serve damage as it gradually heals, but it’s an understatement to discount James and the Cavs.

Any team can topple another team in one game, but purging them in an entire series is a whole different story.

For the everlasting failures and usual instincts of falling apart in critical situations, LeBron is attempting to win a championship in his hometown, healthy or unhealthy.

In recent years, the Celtics vs. Cavs is a renewal rivalry producing raw blood on the hardwood and could last seven games, depending whether the Celtics can avenge an embarrassing loss and recover to purge any nightmarish afterthoughts of relapsing before a home crowd.

After encountering a 104-86 loss in Game Two to Boston at home, it was vital to win one on the road and take a commanding lead in the series, despite blowing home court advantage.

Very quickly, the Cavs revitalized certainty with every reason to believe they can win a championship and increase a sense of happiness in a town that hasn’t experienced much triumph, but has suffered mockery with all the draining fiascoes smudging sensibility.

As expected, LeBron stepped onto the court with realization and led the Cavs. On this night, he played with heart and energy, demonstrating a crafty and savvy style of play in his arsenal of shots.

The Cavs also relied on their two-time MVP to attack with his body and set up teammates by making incredible passes on most possessions.

They rely more on his talent and upper body strength, in which James is unstoppable in dashing through the lanes and slashing inside to finish on the easy deuce, unless he’s battered with nagging pain of his banged up elbow.

He’s playing through an injury and still strives towards a title as an inestimable superstar embraced heavily in a good-natured town.

Although James has been nixed with a minor injury with prolonged publicity raising a level of concern, he appeared fine amid a limitless farce and reasserted his status Friday night when the powerfully built 6-8, 255-pound forward outplayed Boston single-handedly.

With all the dubious thoughts of James’ injury, it's almost inevitable to dismiss the Cavs, who dismantled the Celtics, 124-95, at the Garden, to hand Boston its worst home loss in playoff history.

So much for shamrocks, victory cigars or seas of green remaining in the stands, when the majority of Celtics’ faithful made their way to the nearest exit and stayed silent for much of the night.

Because of their poor outing, the rowdy fans even serenaded loud and unpleasant boos, disappointed of the staggering letdown and sudden turnaround. It’s too bad there are no refunds.

But no team desires ending the season for an early vacation and a fishing trip with Kenny and Charles, certainly not James and the Cavs, a championship-caliber franchise that is angling for a glorious prize.

They retaliated from a lousy Game Two, avoiding the careless lapses and bounced back with a conscious attitude in attaining its share of deference. His famous elbow injury wasn’t an ill-effect as cynical believers began doubting James' ability to guide the Cavs back to the NBA Finals.

Perhaps, it was misguided headlines when he showed off in a brilliant showpiece, exploding and silencing doubters in a hostile environment with a dazzling performance. He had the swagger to pulverize the Celtics in the conference semifinals, with clear evidence on why he’s the Most Valuable Player.


The world suddenly became curious of his response while battling an injury in the postseason, knowing he’s the superstar of a franchise that relies on his productivity. James scored 21 of his 38 points in the first quarter and summarized a demoralizing defeat, to implant a historical mark.

The Cavs record-setting 59.5 for points and field-goal percentage was the difference in their manhandling over the Celtics, who never had an answer or stood in the face or stopped a vintage James from pestering them.

For three days, he received plenty of rest and practiced without feeling pain in his elbow. On a star-studded evening, he played with emotion and knocked down jumpers without grimacing in pain. He delivered in a critical way and nailed eight of his 10 shots in the first quarter alone.

“We had three days to sit and feel the pressure and then bounce back,” said James. “Rest helped me and we were able to have a complete game.”

During an intense practice Thursday, he was evidently fine without grimacing in agony. He tried out a jump-shooting secession. And he wore a Kobe-like scowl on his face at game time, ready to lead his team to a different outcome unlike the other night when they were massively routed.

“It was a really important game for us; it was my mindset from the jump,” said James. “It started with me and everyone else saw my aggression.”

He was aggressive, indeed, by making 14 of 22 shots for driving to the rim. He also grabbed eight rebounds, seven assists and two blocks to finish off a well-rounded night. As it seems, the Cavs are unbeatable whenever his teammates compile points on the scoreboards.

Such as Antawn Jamison, who had a stellar game as a Cavalier, had 20 points with 12 rebounds and won the skirmish with Kevin Garnett. It was as if he was an undersized forward standing in the middle, when Jamison outhustled and frustrated KG.

By the end of the night, he settled for 19 points on 8 of 11 shooting, but more stunningly, he was held merely to four rebounds and a lone assist.

Finally, there was some life from Shaquille O’Neal, instead of producing rap lyrics. Though he’s aging, he produced 12 points with nine rebounds to add to the lopsided rebounding margin of 45-30 and points in the paint by a differential of 50-32.

Did you believe in LeBron? I did.

The scene reminded us not to discount the Cavs. It’s inevitable to wave farewell and rule out Cleveland. And with LeBron anything is possible, especially when his royal court comes to James' aid.

King James is Most Valuable, But for Cleveland Cavaliers It's Now or Never

There were times when a rambunctious crowd erupted a crazy frenzy at the Quicken Loans Arena in downtown Cleveland, and witnessed LeBron James sprinkled baby powder onto his hands and tossed it skyward to thrill a sellout capacity crowd.

So there are the Cleveland Cavaliers in their finest season, generating enough buzz to pose as the next NBA franchise to be crowned champs. If the loyal population in an avid sporting town is still inquisitive to know exactly where LeBron may end up next season when he becomes a free-agent this summer, his status of testing the market is trivial.

Expected to alleviate town indignities, the Cavs are the nearest major franchise in a cursed sports town to revoke humiliation that has dragged down soul for its dismal culture.

It’s wrongly inappropriate to dismiss the Cavs, a franchise led by more than a puppet, but a global superstar in James. He’s expected to be named the MVP for the second straight season, with leading a deep supporting cast and having a large impact on the Cavs optimistic pursuit to the NBA Finals.

Need I remind you that the town rocks, zests to taste a legitimate prize in June? At last, there’s much more to witness than rock stars performing at a nearby venue or touring the luxurious sites of the Rock and Roll museum, observing photos and memorabilia of the Beatles or Rolling Stones.

It’s the time of year when much blabbering and attention is given to a fascinating basketball franchise, with the excitement and captivation of LeBron’s intense performances. Ever since he was the overall selection in the NBA Draft years ago, he was absorbed heavily as a savior and earned praise for rejuvenating a horrid franchise.

In his domain, he has improved ticket sales and lifted the attendance level at a spacious venue, suddenly a noisy and active environment where the swinging towels and flags are a notable trademark. No disrespect to the Boston Celtics, but it’s now or never for the Cavs to prove worthy of winning a title and satisfy a long-awaited crowd.

Although this series should be exciting, Cleveland is more athletic, hungrier, earnest and younger than the battered Celtics. Although this series should be an intense battle and last seven games, they’ll prevail in a sudden death to advance to the Eastern Conference Finals.

What happened Saturday was an indicator that the Cavs are delivering a sense of normalcy in the postseason, translating their usual trends seen so often during the regular-season. It’s simply a great team at home, fueled on the crowd’s intensity and enthusiasm, which mostly results in a charming win.

If anything, it doesn’t take much to deliver a knock out punch against the vulnerable and beatable Boston. When the Cavs dispatched the Chicago Bulls in the first round, enough to irritate Joakim Noah, whose animosity encouraged them to pummel an unbalanced and tumultuous team, the Cavs were resilient and savvy at knocking out the Bulls.

The elements of well-coaching and intrepidity is a common philosophy to excel at the highest level in a competitive postseason. The unique possibility of the Cavs purging in the second-round is hard to imagine, fortunate to take on Boston.

It certainly is less daunting to fall to the Celtics, but fittingly, it’s more convenient to thrive and advance deeper into the postseason for a feasible meeting with the Lakers in the Finals. After all, it’s a unanimous bout the world desires witnessing, in which the man with the scowl would collide with the man with the tomahawk dunks.

More specifically, the dream matchup we are dying to see is Kobe and LeBron clash on the same court in what would be an epic classic, and even silence the obnoxious debates on which player is more prominent and worthy of MVP notability.


Right now, it’s no one other than LeBron, the noble superstar who’s hours before receiving his second straight MVP award. The delivery and leadership alone declares James as the front-runner with his versatility and energy to appease respectable fans of honoring his powerful influence.

He’s the reigning Most Valuable Player, but hails in an indigenous environment attached to ineffectual and inspiring star players. He symbolizes the heart of a beloved sports town, bowing to King James when he has a wonderful scoring night. All the people in attendance gratefully chants “MVP! MVP!"

Nearly each game this season, he was the clutch performer in the fourth quarter and pleaded for the ball to close out a wild contest on a positive note. What superstar doesn’t take over in the late minutes?

As a native growing up in Akron, Ohio, he always dreamed of playing for his hometown team, a franchise he grew up rooting for and now in good position of winning a title as an NBA star at home. He accepts the challenge, likes dazzling in the huge moments and feels comfortable with the ball in his hands.

It’s not that he distrust in his teammates, but plays the leadership role when it’s necessary, and if he intends to excel on his agenda before he test the market, he knows the consequence of controlling the tempo while aiming to win a title.

Maybe it would bribe the All-Star forward to wear a Cavs uniform until he retires, urging the organization to sign LeBron to the richest deal in NBA history before New York pursues and offers James millions.


For now, he’s strictly focused on winning a championship and celebrating with his hometown friends, teammates and family. Before the series, the masses worried about his sore elbow, but relieved tension when he reported that it felt better and had loosened. He also said that he didn’t put pressure on it during the off days since he was forced to attempt a left-handed free throw Tuesday to close out the series against the Bulls.

The worldwide icon walked off the court in Game One against Boston calmed, after pulling off a convincing comeback to salvage a 101-93 win Saturday. If the supporting cast has a brilliant and productive run without vanishing, the Cavs can win the championship. But he’ll need contributions from all the role players, while he adds the finishing touches and afloat in the Eastern Conference with the commodities of a sizable frontcourt.

More substantially, the Cavs have tremendous depth in the frontcourt with Anderson Varejao and J.J. Hickson. Now that coach Mike Brown realize he’s getting production out of Hickson, he’ll probably make some adjustments and juggle the starting lineup around, giving him more quality minutes.

A lot of fans are pleased with his toughness and work ethic underneath the rim, as well as Varejao, both attacking and creating trouble by smothering Paul Pierce.

Like the average individual, we all age. During the offseason, the Cavs acquired Shaquille O’Neal, the once-dominant center whose phrase is freestyle rapping, but also is clobbering the middle with his oversized athleticism. It seems he’s slower in running up and down the floor, but still blocks shots and throws down dunks when he’s inside the interior.

It’s conceivable to think that the Cavs are orchestrated by James’ coercion. The scoreboard read that he scored 35 points on 24 field goal attempts, with seven assists to finish the night. As always, he’s an expertise of the game, he’s a world-class athlete and he’s the Most Valuable Player, not only in the league, but as a member of the Cavs.

He’s the remarkable King James.

Shaq or No Shaq, Boston Celtics Still Put Fear into Cleveland Cavs

Your average basketball loyalist fails to understand that the Cleveland Cavaliers might not be mighty after all. Because they now consist of the Man of Steel, Superman, the Big Catus or the Big Diesel, doesn’t legitimize pure dominance over a menacing team in the most compelling conference.

But when the Celtics rejuvenated and returned to precedence two seasons ago, reaching a climax that Boston vastly owned in the 1970s and '80s, Kevin Garnett smoked a victory cigar and emotionally lifted his head skyward. Moments later, he shouted to the heavens "ANYTHING IS POSSIBLE!!!"

Words are similar for the Cavs, too. But we must remember, it’s an understatement not to fear the Boston Celtics, when lately most of the hype is centered on the revamped Cavs. In their respective offseasons, the front office made a desperate transition, when general manager Danny Ferry and owner Dan Gilbert were decisive in adding physicality to mitigate fragile and soft toughness inside.

One reason upgrading the roster was greatly relevant to build a forceful and contending core around NBA’s most attractive superstar LeBron James was a solution for bribing the reigning Most Valuable Player to remain in a Cavs uniform.

The last thing to imagine is James departing to New York and suiting up for the Knicks, undoubtedly expanding revenue as a distraught town will easily transform into a cheerful environment and detach from a disoriented era, which left a horrid stain.

Meanwhile, in such an active locale, an intense crowd is accustomed to high-flying dunks, the baby powder toss, and surprising tricks.

The engaging fans are attached to LeBron's finesse plays that no player could match, and bringing in Shaq is obviously an annex for aspiration in the near future. Aiming for a championship in a town where fans and winning championships rocks, the hype is worth dwelling on.

There’s no excuses now, with a forceful center who at one point in his career was known as the most dominant center, right? Well, there’s a few excuses you can simply make. There are tough obstacles taunting the Cavs, vastly becoming archrivals in a much-competitive conference.

Obviously, an entire season could be menacing, longer and exhausting, when a bloody matchup in likelihood could ruin a potential year for the Cavs and force LeBron to seek a change of scenery.

Considering his next destination is a flattering home, where contending for multiple titles is a top propriety, LeBron will finally sense a clear understanding on what winning the grandest prize is like in his proud career, rather than attaining awards for individual excellence.

If there’s one team capable of dismantling strong beliefs or corroding superiority, the Celtics are fitted to persuade LeBron to leave town and force Shaq to retire.

To start with, the Celtics are introducing a new vision of Celtic Pride. For now shamrocks and victory cigars are earning praise, as analyst and basketball devotees anoint the Boston Three Party, more than giving credit to purple and gold.

Although it’s early to tell which team is equipped, admittedly you can predict the Celtics will be competing for the shining Larry O’Brien Trophy, attempting to win their second title in three seasons.

The regular season launched tonight, and the Celtics body language defines a starved group, still bitter of the significant injury of Kevin Garnett, which paralyzed last season and dismissed satisfaction.

No longer was the general public optimistic, giving the Cavs a slight advantage as Garnett missed the entire postseason by nursing and recovering from a serious knee injury.

Whenever the Big Ticket, punches in his ticket, the Celtics are a legitimate powerhouse and tough to defeat. Garnett is their inspirational leader, their defensive expert, putting on a show for spectators who purchased a ticket. Being healthier than ever, his presence inside gives them a chance of reclaiming prevalence.

Yet on nights like this one, the Celtics leaned on their top-notch point guards, demolishing Shaq’s debut and LeBron’s assurance of owning Boston and their residences.

Late in the game as minutes trickled, Pierce was clutched and nailed two crucial jumpers with 1:03 remaining. That tallied a final score of 95-89 to scratch out a victory over the new-look Cavs.

Then again, most could have a mutual notion about the Celtics, after adding depth inside and building a fierce tandem. Most predict that Boston will win it all because of the addition of Rasheed Wallace, who scored 12 points in his debut, known for his toughness by clogging the middle and making it difficult for opponents to drive the lane smoothly.

As for the Cavs, King James posted an usual 38 points. Of course, it's not good enough to overthrow a fortunate team like the Celtics, having all the ingredients to reclaim the spotlight and possibly meet their archenemies in a rematch in June.

As we know, the Celtics-Cavs are bloody, meaning it will be a hard-fought war throughout the year.

Meanwhile, the Celtics are scarier and bloodier. Guess anything is possible!

Shaq Adds Powerful Force, No Excuses: Cleveland Must Rock Now

They have a few things in common, labeled as NBA’s most appealing stars. Just in this season, whether, we have relished their player’s introductions and are accustomed of their cartoonish psyche.

So much idolatry is insatiably circulated in the basketball atmosphere, when it relates to LeBron James and Shaquille O’Neal. Um! Wonder if Nike’s creativity will unleash a puppet ad, with James and Shaq sharing a title?


Together, they are a perfect tandem to develop life in Cleveland, a dispirited town that hasn't won a major championship since 1964, a town with many indignities that just won’t vanish from a town that should have rocked this season.

Shaq realizes he might be the town's cure and purge memories of The Shot, The Drive, The Fumble and The Choke, which wasn’t genuine until migrating to the city that presumably rocks.

For the big man who traveled from the east to the west, from the land of Disney to the celeb-life of Hollywood. Then, he found life on the beach and recently in the desert as the self-proclaimed Big Cactus.

Assuming Shaq has enough diesel fuel to last for at least two more season, the Big Diesel's next pit stop was confirmed Wednesday evening.

Moreover, his journey as the most dominant center will close with the Cleveland Cavaliers, where he’ll share the ball with King James. And if anyone is concerned if their personalities won’t coexist, then reconsider your theory.

It’s like Kobe and Shaq reoccurring, or Wade and Shaq repeating itself. After all, the rumors developed into truthful chatter of the Phoenix Suns sending Shaq to Cleveland for Sasha Pavlovic and Ben Wallace, a second round pick in 2010, and $500,000 in cash.

It’s a masterminded deal, and makes the Cavs ownership much smarter than the dauntless Suns.

Keep in mind it was a steal—they traded away two players who didn’t cost them much, so if the Diesel turns into a disappointment, it wouldn’t be much of a loss. The Cavs front office hurried to refurbish missing pieces and grasp awareness from the latest collapse of the Orlando Magic in the Eastern Conference finals.

Sure, owner Dan Gilbert knew significance of upgrading, not only to remove complex failures, but to bridle LeBron from traveling to the heart of the East in New York. The fans there are already coveting his potential arrival when he’ll be eligible for free agency in 2010.

This means there’s only one year remaining on LeBron’s contract, so adding Shaq could bribe him to stay in his hometown.

In fact, fans have embraced LeBron mightily when he received his Most Valuable Player award at his high school, including at home games, where the baby powder antics fascinate fans to cheer on their hometown hero.

Remember, he’s the King of the court, kindling the hearts of many with his thrilling buzzer beater that saved the Cavs from being swept in the Eastern Conference Finals. It dismissed memories of Michael Jordan’s heart-wrenching shot, and inaugurated memories of The Shot of King James.

By bringing aboard Shaq’s diesel fuel, it will fuel a dormant town and could halt the New York Knicks president, Donnie Walsh of stealing the superstar from Cleveland. If Shaq wins his fifth title to even the Kobe-Shaq-O-Meter, for those keeping track, it could fortify his legacy.


But importantly, it could reassure staying home in Cleveland with a title. Wouldn’t it be the most-appealing NBA Finals, better than Boston vs. Los Angeles or Orlando vs. Los Angeles, if it was the Lakers vs. Cavs?

I’ll guess many think it would be the greatest Finals ever, indeed the most publicized Finals, involving a much-friendlier matchup between Shaq and Kobe—one of the greatest sports feuds that in the league.

The NBA blessed us with a graceful Christmas present in two seasons, when the Lakers played the Miami Heat on a traditional holiday known for gathering with relatives, feast and rip apart presents to unveil what’s behind the furtive gift wrap.

In those two seasons, we saw Kobe vs. Shaq after their heinous divorce and watched them feud. Sure, it won’t be a result next time, but it will improvise an intriguing Final, via the greatest historically.

Even now with LeBron manifesting his next destination by wearing a Yankees’ cap and promoting his shoes a few years ago in Yankees colors, still doesn’t firmly validate his next home will be with the Knicks at Madison Square Garden.

After showing unsportsmanlike behavior in the loss to the Magic, the New York media will criticize LeBron harshly and mock his sore losing nature.

At least for now, the two greatest superstars are a combination, assembled as one to entertain us and control NBA’s programming schedule next season, as basketball viewers are appointed to watch and brace.

Let’s be realistic, Shaq isn’t the dominant force he was years ago. And there's much bickering to settle, after he criticized Stan Van Gundy and Dwight Howard, remember?

That said he may slow down LeBron, who admires running the transition game. But as we understand, having a sizable center in the interior establishes a post presence to compete with the physique Howard.

Playing as LeBron’s sidekick, Shaq is healthy and robust enough to collect boards.

He can hold opposing players outside the paint, with size and height advantage, which transform them into a championship contender. For the Suns, Shaq played 75 games and averaged 17.8 points and 8.4 rebounds a game, good numbers for a 37 year old man, which will make him the oldest among his teammates.

He obviously doesn’t have to present much as a starter, and here are the reasons why. With an explosive scorer like the charismatic James, Shaq can capture his fifth title without being assigned a tough task.

And James is also exceptional creating plays for his teammates, of which there will be numerous times when he’ll dish a pass to Shaq inside for unstoppable power shots.

Now he’s a resident of Cleveland, improving the landscape of basketball and putting spirit back. Once again they’ll utter CLEVELAND ROCKS! Well, you will soon find out.

For now, it rocks as there’s no tandem as equipped as King James and Shaq Diesel.