Every morning, we compile the links of the day and dump them here... highlighting the big storyline. Because there's nothing quite as satisfying as a good morning dump.
The Hawks reportedly have cooled to the idea of adding C Shaquille O’Neal, because, for now, his asking price is too high.
If he were to end up in Atlanta, he’d be in the same division as Magic C Dwight Howard, which would make it Superman vs. Superman four times a year during the regular season.
When asked whether O’Neal would be a good fit for the Hawks, Howard told The Atlanta Journal-Constitution, “I don’t know. I like their lineup now. I know a lot of people get mad and say they’re not big on the inside, but they’re a big team. They’ve got big guards. They’ve got big forwards. They’ve got a flying forward (Josh Smith). So it doesn’t really matter about having a seven-footer.”
The Diesel has been linked with Atlanta, Dallas, Boston, Miami and San Antonio, but has no contract. O’Neal is trying to extract two years and roughly $10 million, which can only be achieved if Cleveland helps Shaq in a sign and trade, which isn’t likely.
“The biggest thing that will define my legacy is how I’ve done it, and what I’ve done, and who I am,’’ O’Neal said as he awaits a suitor willing to match his demands. “I’m a weird big guy. Doing rapping, doing movies. Do a lot of stuff.
“But always do things the right way. Changed three different franchises around (Orlando, L.A. Lakers and Miami). This is a guy who they (league officials) would have secret meetings about to change the rules. So, that’s going to be my legacy: The most dominant player ever.”
Toronto Sun (via SLAM)
I don't know what to say that hasn't been said already. If he wants this much money, then he can keep on walking. If he's willing to take less, then we're in business.
SLAM also laid out some decent pros and cons for signing Shaq... and the end analysis is the same thing.
So, really, it’s a matter of Shaq’s willingness to play for a smaller check. If that’s not the case, than the teams in question can largely do without him.
Shaq still has some what to offer—for the right price. He can function best on a Playoff bound team with a strong half court offense much like the aforementioned squads. NBA front offices just have to quell their expectations if they’re looking to pull the trigger
Bingo. On Page 2: The new Dance team has been chosen
If Brian Scalabrine doesn't return... and you sit there and say "it's a shame Scal had no impact on this team at all..." just remember that you're wrong. Scal was one of the judges for the C's dancers. So there. Many more pictures where these came from: The Globe's dancer finals photo gallery