Shaquille O'Neal has decided to join the Boston Celtics, according to sources with knowledge of the situation. He is expected to tell the team of his intentions Wednesday morning.
The length of the contract is not known, but O'Neal, who has been seeking a two-year deal, will play for the veteran's minimum of $1.4 million annually.
Celtics coach Doc Rivers began pursuing O'Neal last month when the two met in Orlando. Boston and the Atlanta Hawks were the two clubs most interested in O'Neal, and sources say O'Neal chose the Celtics because he believes they have a better chance of winning what would be his fifth NBA championship.
I know a lot of people will down play this move or even outright disagree with it, but I think the if Shaq is willing to accept a new role in the twilight of his career this could be a huge move for the Celtics. Just his size alone in the paint can help them when dealing with teams that have a tall front line like the Lakers. And as long as he isn't demanding the ball he can still give you at least 10 or so points a game. And remember the Celtics have a Ray Allen and Paul Pierce bombing from behind the stripe so any time Shaq draws a double team can be a win for Boston.
It remains to be seen just how he will fit on the team but I personally like the move.
I agree, Maybe Brett Favre is not the OLD Brett, but he still has enough left to beat you. Shaq is a huge body, and can only improve the Celtics if he leaves his Ego at the Door. It is said that Paul Pierce was seen jumping with joy over the acquisition of Shaq. This may be all Academic anyway. Miami looks frightening, on paper anyway ?
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