Shaq a Sun, Marion a Heat

Well I thought the trade of Gasol to the Lakers was big news, but Kobe's mate couldn't stay out of the action. Shaquille O'Neal would have heard the news of the Lakers and wanted to be the headline.

So what happened? The big man was traded to the finals regular Phoenix Suns. Phoenix in exchange sent off the swingman and perennial double-double man Shawn Marion and guard Marcus Banks.

What do I think of this trade? Well I think it is a terrible move from Phoenix. Phoenix needed a big man to help out on defence when they come up against the Tim Duncan's, Yao Ming and other West big men in the finals. Shaq can do this, but my problem is will he actually be right to play. Hampered by hip, knee and ankle injuries he hasn’t been himself for quite a while now. If he suits up for half of the possible games for the Suns I would be shocked.

Being a Spurs fan I have to say I am wrapped at this move. Out of all the teams in the West the Suns scared me the most. Now Marion is gone I am not as scared of them. Shaq is no longer what he was and will feel the pressure (if he plays) of the West’s big men. They will expose his lack of game winning skills and speed, which will finally ring the bell on his illustrious career.

Miami on the other hand will be happy with this trade. I am a big fan of Marion, he is a player with long arms for defence, quick, flexible and a tonne of fun to watch. He is more to Phoenix than they give him credit for. I think he is the guy who can be relied upon to win you those big games. Always putting up great figures and more valuable in my eyes than Steve Nash. His game is perfectly suited to that of Dwayne Wade and now Miami will have the up-tempo game that will get a bit of excitement back into the American Airlines Arena, and maybe a few more wins. Marcus Banks is no slouch either, he will definitely benefit from the new move and exposure he will get.

Coach Onski
Article Written 7th February 2008

Gasol a Laker

Today I found out about the Lakers having traded Kwame Brown, Javaris Crittenton, Aaron McKie, the draft rights Marc Gasol (Pau's Brother) and first round picks in 2008 and 2010 for Pau Gasol and a second round draft pick in 2010. This was huge news that would definately increase the Lakers chances of progressing in the finals.

Gasol will add that second star to the Lakers team which is essential for any team to be a champtionship team. Just look at the past Isiah Thomas & Joe Dumars, Michael Jordan & Scottie Pippen, Shaquille O'Neal & Kobe Bryant or even the triple threat of Tim Duncan, Tony Parker & Manu Ginobili. (Yeah I am a bit biased)

But seriously teams can not win championships with 1 star. That is why LeBron James will not win a championship at Cleveland. While he plays there they will be a good team but will never get a good enough draft pick to add to the team to help him out. Unless he is traded he will be one of those champions without a chamionship.

Back to the Lakers, like I said, great move to pick up the Spanish Gasol, and for the Lakers to give up some fairly average players that is a top move for them. Although the 2 first round draft picks could be very harmful, especially as they may need them in those years when Kobe has finally had enough and wants out of the Purple and Yellow.

As for Julians call that this move will bring back the Lakers Vs Celtics finals campaign, I would like to go to the Steakhouse when that doesnt come to fruition. That bet is as good as won by Coach Onski!! Thanks

Coach Onski
Article Written 7th February 2008