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 Big Fella Going to Make Big Splash
Posted By: Tim Kempton |
 Shawn Marion was traded for Shaquille O'Neal on Wednesday and Tim Kempton explains why this could help push the Suns to a championship. (NBAE Photos) |
If you’re going to give up a Shawn Marion, you have to get someone who’s going to come in here and make a splash, and I think Shaquille O’Neal will make that splash on and off the court.
Shaq is the most dominant player of all time. His sheer size and strength just overwhelms teams. Sure, he might not be the same player he was in his prime, but he will take away that whole lane area where the Suns have been weakest.
People aren’t going to come in there and take over the glass anymore. Even if Shaq just stands there, his size alone will keep people out of there and he will gather rebounds. So from that standpoint we get very strong in an area where we were very weak, the interior defense.
We don’t have to come and double team the opponent’s big man anymore either. Everybody can stay home on their man now. This move also makes Amare Stoudemire the weak-side defender, where he is very, very good, averaging over two blocks a game. Now Amare becomes all that much better because he doesn’t have to play in the post and he can play his natural forward position. Playing the four spot, he’ll be away from the basket a little bit more, which will help him get down the floor even quicker than he does now.
Speaking of getting down the floor, I’ve heard a lot of people saying that the Suns’ high-speed offense is now dead, but I don’t think so at all. If anything, our fastbreaks should increase. I think we’ll get more defensive rebounds now and defensive rebounds only lead to more run-outs, as Shaq can pass it out to Nash or Hill on the break, and trail them down the floor.
I think Shaq is disappointed with the way things have gone as of late down in Miami. He is a very competitive person, but sometimes when you are in a place too long, you do get lackadaisical. They’ve already won a championship there and they’re really struggling as a team this season.
Pat Riley’s practices are no day at the park, either. It’s a very, very tough place to play in Miami, so if you’re a little sore, that makes you a LOT sore, and then you have to go out there and play 82 games. That’s not to say he shut it down or anything, but that it’s got to be difficult to stay motivated on a bad team when you’re hurting.
I don’t know what’s going on physically with him, of course. That’s why the physical the Suns put him through today was so important, to find out how hurt or banged up he really is. But I’ll tell you what, Aaron Nelson and Mike Elliot, our athletic training staff, has done a phenomenal job with guys here. Just ask Antonio McDyess, who has credited Aaron and the Suns’ partnership with NASM (National Academy of Sports Medicine) for helping him during his second stint in Phoenix. Ask Amare about their work with him following his microfracture a couple seasons ago. Ask Grant Hill about his experience with the guys since he joined the team. Shaq will be another big project for them.
Like Shawn, I’ve got to add that Shaq is a wonderful guy. I actually know him quite well. We lived in the same neighborhood in Orlando before I moved out here, and we hung out on the water. The big fella had all the toys and we would take them out on the Butler Chain, the lakes down there in Orlando, riding jet skis. That was a blast.
Shaq’s a really big kid at heart. Although it’s tough to say goodbye to Shawn, I think you’re really going to enjoy this guy.
Comments
Noel -
Bad. This is bad.
Jason Barcon - Mesa
Wow.
Colton - Chandler
WHAT!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! This is a joke right? please tell me this a joke.
7 sec or less shaq will be at half court in 7 sec. Are you kidding me. For Shawn... well I guess he got what he wanted. What!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
this is crazy. We will see to night. Craziness.
tammy - glendale
i have always been a shaq fan-but shawn was my favorite sun-i hope this helps our chances for a ring- you are only as good as your last championship....... i understand that shawn was a distraction- he didn't want to be here- lets go suns-
Brett with Scottsdale.com - scottsdale
I'm with you on this one Tim. Really hate to give up Shawn but happy to see Shaq. By the way, did Shaq ever ride on the tube while you drove the boat?
Sid Salcido - Los Angeles
Am I the first to write?
I must say that when I first heard of the trade, I was shocked. I thought the same thoughts that most of the fans pondered, such as "he is always hurt" (we remember Penny Hardaway), or "he can't keep up with the fast pace," or "he is but a figment of his past glory." But I do admit that Tim makes some good points.
One to add to it is the sudden rush a person gets when they join a new, good team. Shaq, when he left the Lakers (in which he was a little out of shape and had dropped 9 points from his original average) became a gym rat in Miami, and got into great shape to lead them to the best regular season ever in Miami. It is possible, as Tim pointed out concerning out athletic trainers, that he can repeat that excitement for getting into shape, and be at least around 65% of what he was in his prime(right now he is about 45%).
One last note, what will it do for him when he begins his new relationship with Steve Nash, who is literally DYING for a championship, to hear the positive encouragement and to play with him and get easy shots from him? I think that this may really work, at least for this year.
lizceth - phoenix
Its a shame that the suns had to trade Shawn Marion. The team will not be the same without him. I will miss seeing him in a suns uniform and dunking on other players. The suns made a BIG mistake and Im SOOOOOO mad!!!!!!!!!! What is Shaq gonna do? SLOW the suns down!!!!!
Mark Conklin - Chandler, AZ
I *HOPE* you are right. Everything you said makes sense in theory. But we are trying to fix something that is not necessarily broken. Not to mention that season ticket holders like me are anxious to see how this will play out and we will not even know for weeks because Shaq is hurt. I also can't understand why Di'Antoni seemed to have no idea about this when interviewed last night on KTAR. I agree though, in my wildest dreams this is great, but not without risk. If it doesn't go well, we lost a valley icon and are paying a luxury tax for no good reason. For a decision that could make or break the team it seems too fast.
Ron AZ - Chandler
We all love the SUNS and I thank SHAWN MARION for all he has done for the SUNS. Shawn will be missed by all. With that said, the SUNS have had one of the best regular season records over the past several years and have not been successful in the playoffs. Just recently with the SPURS, with Parker out, Barry out... SUNS up 14 points.. SUNS lose. If we keep the current roster, we will have the same results. The SUNS have always needed a BIG MAN in the middle. I am hopeful Shaq is that person. This will take some time, but we have time before the playoffs. GO SUNS...
Chuck Collier - Wisconsin
True, this gives us the interior defense we've so desperately craved. But it WILL cut down on our fast breaks. We won't get nearly as many steals without Shawn on the floor, which lead to our better fast breaks. And it will be tough to be able to utilize BOTH Shaq and Amare on the post, as more defenders will be drawn there if their both sitting on the block. But, this will open up our 3-point game. Truly, we can't say anything until we finally see him in action. BUT, picking up a $40 million contract for a 36 year old, 320 pound center who has a hip injury and is clearly on his way out.....is illogical. we could've gotten richard jefferson or kirilenko. this wasn't our best option.
-
I'm very dissapointed in the Suns Association. i think this is a bad trade and that the suns offense is going to suck alot. shaq is over the hill and cannot fit the style of play that phoenix is famous for. i am dissapointed to say that phoenix will not longer be enjoyable to watch. heads should roll for this trade.
dave - oregon
ive liked the suns since 1992 and now i realy like them. bring it shaq!!! bring us that championship
Phoenix Phan - KS
I have been a long time SUNS fan and the news of this trade floored me. I do think trading Marion and Banks for Shaq will make a splash, but it is more like the splash of putting the SUNS in a toilet bowl. Marion gave the SUNS rebounds, steals, defense and offense. Shaq can only offer size. He is injured and on his way out the door. His salary will not be earned just like Jalen Rose last year. I don't think he can run the floor like the SUNS do so their offense will decline more than their defense will increase. I think it was a desperate move and it gives the impression that the front office doesn't believe D'antoni's system can win a champoinship. It is a shame that the players weren't happy. It sounds like maybe there is a little more concern about what is in it for me versus what is best for the team. Ego's will always destroy a team and now they brought the biggest ego in the NBA right here to Phoenix. Way to go. I hope the SUNS can recover from this, but only time will tell.
ben -
is he playing tonight?
Kelly Skaff - La Crosse, Wisconsin
I totally agree the Suns should be better once they adjust a little. Watch that smile that Kobe had last night disappear real fast! Now if the Suns can just find a decent back-up point guard soon, watch out come the play-offs.
charles conrad -
Great deal! Im really looking forward to seeing you guys play. I live in detroit and Im a piston fan but I look forward to seeing you guys in the finals against the pistons.
Johana - Phoenix Az.
Well I'm not going to enjoy seeing Shaq instead of Shawn. I love to see Shawn Marion playing now I have to see Shaq. I'm not happy with the decision.
J. Garcia - Phoenix, AZ
I believe that another important aspect to Shaq being a Sun, and one that it seems most of the media is failing to mention right now, is the fact that we now have a guy in the locker room with FOUR championship rings, that I believe will be a great influence on the other guys; STAT especially. During the Nash era, people (I hear you Chuck) have accused the Suns of being soft. If there's a player in the league that can change that unfair title, I believe it's the Diesel. I welcome Shaq-fu to the Valley. Now let's go get that damn ring now.
jon - glendale
perfect article. True fan from the begining. Sure glad some of these people weren't around during Truck Robinson days!
DK - Phx to San Antonio
I have been a Suns fan for over 20 years and am still stunned each time the franchise trades away it's team leaders. I have had the privilege of speaking with Shawn a few times and agree that he is a great guy. He has been a consistent performer on the Suns, and has proven himself to be an all-star.
This news is EXTREMELY disappointing, especially given that Shaq has 5 years left in him, maybe.
Which brings me to these questions: Did we really need to size up our interior defense? Was the lane open THAT much? Could it be that the organization is overreacting to our lack of inside dominance due to Amare being out most of the season? Is Kerr still a Bull - is he a Mole - is there a conspiracy? Was it not bad enough that Kerr was the perpetrator of the 92-93 Suns Championship game 7 upset?
Or is it just about the individual marketability of a player?
In any case, this is the trade I had feared - liken it to trading Kevin Johnson in his 8th year... Finley, Kidd, Barkley, Nash... and now Marion.
My Suns purple-and-orange is slowly fading to black-and-white (at least Duncan has staying power).
Thank you Suns for 20 years of an emotional roller coaster. As usual, you blew it in the fourth quarter.
P.S. I have an autographed Shawn Marion Rookie Bear from his rookie season, signed after defeating San Antonio - Now it gets a place on my shelf next to the Cliff Robinson (Suns) signed game shoes. Collecting dust and memories.
Theodore Arenas - Surprise
My Dauter's most favorite player is shawn she made the comment she will buy his jersey in Miami.
He will be greatly missed we all grew up with him
(THE MATRIX). Hope your Pedictions are correct Shaq's has age against him. When you loose a key player and dont look overall at the fans some issues will be said. Show boating is not an option Here just do the job and respect the fans.
David Parra - Phoenix, AZ
I am very excited about this move, but will miss Shawn Marion. Even though he was supposedely unhappy you have to give the guy an enormous amount of credit for zipping his lip up once the season began. For being extremely professional, and for being a great player in the years with the team WE THANK YOU SHAWN!!! That alone will land him in The Suns Ring Of Honor. Shaquille O'Neal is the dominant center we've been dreaming about for years. That is no knock to STAT, who molded himself into the role, and became All NBA 1st team center last season. Kudos to STAT for talking it up with the powers that be, and kudos to Steve Kerr for rolling the dice. This is a great follow-up to all the Western Conference powers who have improved over the last couple of weeks. MV-Steve + Raja Bell-ringer + Grant "The Difference" Hill + STAT + Shaq Diesel + Brazillian Blur + 3-D + The Goatee + DJ + The Aussie + Pike + Big Ten Player Of The Year Alando Tucker + The Italian Stallion & Staff = 2007-2008 NBA CHAMPIONS!!!!!!!! Thank You LORD!!!!!
MrRotten - VA
I don't know about the rest of the ESPN reporters and all the other people out there knocking this trade...
I guess I'm seeing something that they aren't. Steve Nash makes everyone... EVERYONE around him better. Shaq has always been dominate and a huge part of the offense when theres a good point guard that knows how to find him. With Steve Nash's passing abilities, and lob abilities.. The fact that the Suns are in a position to challange in the league, and just a fresh start.. The big man, DIESLE: will be motivated to get back going again. On another note, like some of the other people that like the trade are saying. Now Amare can play his Forward position, and Shaq at center... all I can think of is WOW!!! Amare can pass, Shaq we all know is a great passer.. Between those 2, who the hell do you double team in the post??? You can't, plain and simple. Shaq may have lost a step, but thats to be expected. A team like the Suns, with their high powered shooting, the power in Amare, and now the low post presence with Shaq.. Shaq's going to get his numbers, maybe not as much in his hay day, but he will prove that he still can help a team get to THE GAME and WIN! I feel sorry for any team that has to play them if Shaq can get healthy. That is my only concern, and in fact... I love the excitement of watching the Suns, and even now Shaq has always been one of my favorite players. Now both are combined, and i'm stoaked about this deal!!!
GREAT JOB!!! Heres praying that Shaq really isn't as hurt as people let on, and that he gets on the court soon. ( I believe Shaq's been playing a bit of hookey with his injury, and now has the motivation to bring it!!! ) Can't wait till he takes the court.
Lori Ann - Sedona Superfan
I just watched the press conference with Steve Kerr and Coach Mike. I tend to pay close attention to body language when someone speaks, or remains quiet. I couldn't help noticing Coach Mike saying, "yes" while physically shaking his head NO, at the same time. Steve Kerr spoke of Coach Mike's thrill over this whole deal. I didn't see that from Coach D'Antoni at all. I know Coach Mike has tonight's game on his mind, and time was running short. While I'm open to change for the good of the team, I'm just not convinced that Coach Mike is as happy as Steve Kerr says he is. Steve Kerr said: "If it works, I'm a genious. If it doesn't, I'm a moron". I'm hoping, reeeeeeeally hoping, that Sir Kerr proves to be a genious. In great hope - SUNS IN '08 !!!
LatoyaB - Las Vegas
Nice eternal optimism TK. Nice.
Have you taken a look at the boards on Arizona Republic, ESPN, FoxSports, CNNSI, etc. The majority of your devoted Suns fans are freaking out over this move, and not in a good way. What is it that you, Kerr, Sarver and everyone else behind the Suns' brain trust know that the rest of us, media included, don't know about this situation? We see that one of our most valuable, talented players who has done so much for this team get traded away for an old, injury prone, has been?
What can you tell us that will ease our minds and let us know that our only hope of a championship wasn't just squandered away?
JOHN S. - SURPRISE AZ
We (Suns) got what we needed to contend for it all. Marion was my favorite player, but he sealed his fate before the season began. I wish him nothing but good fortune with the Heat. If Shaq is only 75%, we have closed our biggest weakness, the middle, and Amare playing center. This move must be sending tremors around the NBA. Now, lets play some ball, and bring that trophy to Arizona.
larry - palmerston North NZ
why marion??? honestly...shaq is old...and we give away our best player...whos gonna guard guys like tony parker?? It was shawn marions defense...I rarely doubt the Suns organisation at all...But this move really gets me worry...I have always been a Marion fan since he joined the NBA...now ...we have to get used to him in a HEAT uniform???? PLZ!!!!!!!Shaq is big and everything..but hes close to retire...plus he is banged up...If he's done for the season..then i really think maybe its the decision maker who has to go!
Chris - Phoenix
I have to agree with you on this one. Shawn is a rare commodity and I'm sure that his departure will surely be missed by Suns fans of all degrees. I know Miami will welcome him with open arms and he can truly thrive in that setting. Shaq is as determined as ever to start over (both personally and professionally). Although this is a tough pill to swallow, I welcome Shaq with open arms to Planet Orange, as well should all Suns fans.
ybrat2 -
I have been a big fan since I was a kid and supported them through many bad trades......but this new trade is by far the worst ever!! Shag is a has been.......will he ever fully recover from his injury?? And to let go of Shawn Marion is just foolish......a whole community in the East Valley has just decided to find another team........its pretty bad when ESPN shows that over half the nation thinks this trade is a big mistake!! The owner and coaches only got Shag because of his name.......he hasn't produced big numbers since he has been in Miami......I just saw the statistics.........furthermore Shag is going to slow the team down big time.....they will not be the same and many will not want to see the consequences........I wish Marion the best and feel sorry for him to go to such a horrible team......he didn't deserve it......without him the Suns will realize how much they needed him......he produced big numbers this year and had more than one big game........didnt he just recently make a shot at the end of the buzzer to win a game? Hmmm.......oh that is right......they have Shag now and he is such a big scorer!! LOL Good luck to another stupid trade....this is the all time worst
JASON - PHOENIX
i am no longer a suns fan!!! it sucks that my home team keeps making dumb choices! its going to be hard to watch the lakers and the spurs beat the hell out of us more than ever since our center cant run up and down the court! did everyone one forget that we are a runing team!! P.S dont use the were going to better on defence since we have shaq, he has to run to the other side of the court remember! and hes a terrible passer!! AND BY THE WAY SINCE WE ARE DOING SO WELL WHY DONT WE GET RID OF NASH AND REPLACE HIM WITH Stephon Marbury THATS ABOUT RIGHT!!!!!
Peter Lopez - Paranaque City, Philippines
Buckle up Suns fans & get ready for the ride of a lifetime.
bob - peru
What was Kerr thinking? Shaq ran out of gas years ago. Suns management will regret this trade.
Betty - Dallas
This is a sad day in Suns' history....giving up a consistent, excellent player like Shawn Marion for Shaq. Where on earth is he going to fit in with a fast running team like the Suns??? I do not understand this trade and never will. I certainly wish Shawn Marion all the best in Miami and hope that he is appreciated there.
Tim - Tempe,AZ
Can Shaq keep up with the fast pace of the suns?? He is old and shawn marion is an all Star as well as Marcus Banks was the future of the team
Mike Murray - South OC, CA
Suns were between a rock and a hard place with Marion. So, picking up Shaq was getting the best available player for almost equal $$$, when you include MB's salary.. Shaq may be only a two year deal, but do you think Matrix will last in Miami longer than next season? And if we get two titles out of it, i'll take it..
Catherine Torda - Phoenix
I have been a Sun's fan for many, mnay years. I know this is just business however, I never can't understand seeing Shawn Marion leaving.He has been the backbone for this team for mamy years and why I love watching him play. I really enjoyed watching him and Nash play together,they jelled so well. So on that thought , I really, realy wish Shawn the very very best for him and his family. I wish that I could have met him but will always keep my eyes on him. YOY WILL BE MISSED and always a gentleman.
Sincerely.
Cathy Torda
Sad and Disappointed - Northeast Arizona
I'm very sad and disappointed to see Shawn Marion go. I think he was one of the greatest to ever grace our team. Sad to say I most likely will be following him. He was devoted, committed, and classy. I didn't know loyalty was for trade. Well, Shawn I hope you get to see this message some time. Thanks for all you've given to us here in AZ and I guess I'll be seeing you on the court in Miami with Wade.
Big Daddy - Yorba Linda, CA
Marion was a good guy but expendable. He's not a guy you necessarily wanted on the court come playoff time. When the $$ was on the table, he would usually become a no-show. Just ask Kiners !!
Kate - Wisconsin
This deal really bummed me out. I mean sure Amare can switch to PF, but the Suns are known as a running team with a lot of fast breaks. Where is Shaq going to fit in? I personally don't think he'll be able to keep up with the Phoenix pace. I'm also going to miss Shawn Marion- he didn't get the credit he deserved for defending the best players every game and for the consistency he provided the Suns with. Why pay Shaq $20 mill a year when he's not even close to his prime?! Most likely he won't make big contributions to the team til spring. I guess I might change my mind when Phoenix wins a title, but until then I don't like this trade..
anthonylerma - manteca,ca
i think shaq will help the suns defensively, so i say to shaq do your thing ,and to all the suns players keep your eyes on the prize.
stan_the_man - manila
Yes. The Suns may be in need of some help in the middle. But I don't think that Shaq will be able to provide that since he's clearly on his way down of his lustrious NBA career. And he doesn't fit in the playing style of the team.
Art - Brookhaven, Mississippi
I hope that Tim is right about this deal, but my initial impression is that the Sun's management is betting that a player who is clearly in the the twilight of his career will suddenly become a different player when inserted into the Sun's roster. I do believe this move will ensure that the Sun's will not be the western confernce play-off runner-ups this year. They will either fade early or finally push across the line to the NBA finals. Only time will tell, but this distant Sun's fan will miss seeing Shawn work his craft as my family and neighbors sleep. Hopefully Shaq will step in and dial up the excitement that is Sun's basketball for us fans in the east and support the logic of trading next day coffee for this night's sleep. Go Suns!
samantha - portland
I didn't want to see Shaq leave the Heat.
Overall I think this will be a great season and Shaq will sure help with getting a ring for him and Nash
dora - glendale
I was shawn's biggest fan, he's so athletic and versatile but we dont have no ring to show for it shaq does!!!!!.MVP &SHAQ=CHAMPIONSHIP!!!!!GO SUNS>
dezrtvixen - Arizona
This has to be the worst decision yet. Shaq is not going to heal from the hip problem. He is not going to be able to play at the pace the Suns play even when he's able to play. The style will have to change to his slowness. D'Antoni has been a successful coach with the fast pace game. Is he going to have to change to accommodate Shaq? How many other things must change for one player? This team has finally come together as a team with the fast break and rapidly paced game but now they will all have to change the way they play. Everyone says Shawn wasn't happy here and wanted to be traded. He was perfectly happy until everyone began saying he was going to be traded. I think Shaq is going to disrupt the entire Suns locker room and game. 80% of the fans in Miami were glad to see him traded according to a recent poll. That says it all!!
Joe - Scottsdale
I hate suns fans, they really don't understand the game. Shaq wants to win another title. You weren't going to win a title with that same old lineup of a bunch of skinny players who can't play physically. Why do you think you have never beat San Antonio in a 7 game series? Because you can't win the half-court game that the playoffs create. Everyone plays defense in the playoffs but Phoenix, and that's why they haven't made the big show. Now, you don't give up so many 2nd and 3rd chance points, Duncan will only go for 20 instead of 30 on you, and you can match up with the all-of-a-sudden rediculous Laker lineup. And when O'Neal was scoring all his points in his prime, it was because people were drawing defenders off of him and finding him around the rim. . . anyone ever seen steve nash play. He makes EVERYONE around him better, which now includes the best big man to ever walk onto the hardwood. I know you suns fans love watching your team score 120 points every night, but I think you will enjoy watching your team win a title a little more. You now can beat the Spurs and Lakers in the playoffs. Hopefully you can get by Golden State in the first round. Have a little patience folks, Dantoni is a good coach, and will adapt his style to incorporate a great player. Shaq isn't going to dominate, but he will get the tough, physical stuff done that nobody was doing for you. You got outrebounded by 30 last week in one game. . . this will go a long way to helping that HUGE problem. The game is about rebounding, defense, and free throws in the playoffs. All you have to do is hope Shaq isn't trying to win the game from the line, and you'll be fine.
Lori Ann - Sedona Superfan
JASON of Phoenix - Don't let the door hit you in the arse' !!! Thanks for 8 FANtastic years in Phoenix, Shawn! You will be sorely missed! I wish you all the best in Miami. I'll NEVER forget your style, your high-flying slam-dunks, defensive play, and your multitude of steals. My dream of playing pool with you will just have to be "scratched". It's time for us all to move forward now. We'll NEVER forget you, Trix! Welcome to Phoenix, Shaq Daddy! We have a championship to win! SUNS IN 2008 !!!!
Trinette - Phoenix, AZ
I can't believe they traded two guys that brought a defensive presence for the Suns for an injured man. I understand that this is business as usual with the NBA but before the end of the day the deal has to make sense before you sign the dotted line. This doesn't make any sense at all. I loved watching Shawn Marion. He put it out on the floor every night they played and his reward for it was to be traded to a last place team with no hopes of making it back into the playoffs anytime soon. This was a bad deal all around.
andru - philippines
i understand that the suns are trading marion because he has an expiring contract.. its business and i dig it.. However marion is a big fish all-star... i really really believe that the suns could have gotten a better deal than shaq... i am willing to give shaq a shot.. suns fans we have nothong to gain from all this negativism... this year the suns are in a make-or-break situation for the title... next seasin.. shaq and nash will be older.. crap... diaw, hill step-up! barbosa be an all-star.. and to oneal, nash and amare... we believe in you...
TRUE SUNS FAN - Sherman Oaks CA
Yeah, It does hurt but we all knew we needed to build our interior defense. How did the original showtime operate? With Kareem. So why wouldn't Shaq, one of the most dominant centers ever, be able to grab a rebound and dish it to Nash. Our fast beak only includes about 2 to 3 players usually. I want a championship but I wish Shawn could be there too. DAMN!!!This sucks but..GO SUNS!!!!!!!
Mark - Australia
When I read about the trade, I was a little shocked at first, Shawn is an extremely versatile player with years ahead of him, and Shaq probably has 2 - 3 years tops left. But on the flip-side, Shaq at 45-55% is prob still a more dominant big man than most in the league. As great a guy and player as Shawn Marion is, nobody can dominate a game like Shaq can, his numbers may have dwindled but his presence alone will spread the floor for the shooters. I've been a Suns fan now for over 20 years, and usually get frustrated by the pursuit of buying or trading for a championship the Suns seem to love. You think about how many great players have come and gone from this organisation. But I think, and hope that this is one trade that may benefit both franchise's. Marion and Wade will make an excellent duo, Marion's game would be a good fit on any ball club. And if Shaq can re-capture even part of his former dominance, then the Suns may just bring home the big one. The Suns high octane offence will still be in full flight as long as Nash runs the show. I believe this can work, Amare should flourish under Shaq's large wings! When Duncan joined Robinson in his twilight it lead to championship glory. Shaq seems like a pretty easy going guy who could fit with any group, if all goes well on the injury front, he could be the final piece of the long awaited championship puzzle I hope. Go Suns, just beat the bloody Spurs......please!
wakolv - Philippines, Mla
whoah.. i think suns has a bigger chance this season because SHAQ's with them.. nice trade, with Amare on his side.. nothings gonna stop them now! take note they have also the best pointguard on suns ever...
rayan torres - philippines
IF YOU REALLY LOVE PHOENIX LIKE I DO WE SHOULD TRUST THEM IN THEIR DECISIONS RIGHT? GO SHAQ DADDY SHOW THEM THE DIESEL POWER!!!
jenny - ny
i am still having mixed reactions to this trade. although, i've loved shaq since his orlando days, marion is, or was, an important part of this team. but then again, the coaching staff, the whole suns office knows basketball and what happens off the court better than we fans do. marion asked for a trade and we do need a big threat so i think this will work out. you're right, being in a new environment and the fact that everybody's saying shaq is done..will give him a different kind of motivation. just like when he was motivated to give miami a ring. come to think of it, coming into miami, he already had 3 rings. it's not like he was chasing after his first. but he did give them a ring and i hope he will do the same for the suns. i like marion but i love amare...now amare will be joined by my original favorite player, shaq! this is going to be fun! go suns!
Raul - Phoenix
Yeah Yeah Yeah, we lost shawn Marion. He was one of my favorite players too. Everyone loved him including me. But you have to say that this was a good trade. Shaq brings a whole lot of defense to the suns that they didnt have. Shaq will stop penetration in the paint by other teams and lead to more rebounds and fast breaks. So for all you people that think it was a bad trade, think again! Shaq is going to help out the suns tremendously. You will all see!
Rusty Shakelford - Glendale
That was a good trade but they should've traded Marion to T-wolves for Garnett in the first place
janet - phoenix arizona
we want shawn marion back .he was a good player
Mylon - Winslow, Arizona
Very exciting news here. Truly shocking as well. Hmmm....i might say though that Shawn Marion was absolutly wonderful to us. He truly captured our state. This move, however, is truly excited. We have this huge icon (known probably around the entire world) coming to Arizona. Quite interesting when you think about it. Brace yourself Arizona, cause we're in for a big ride.
Sarah - Missouri
I have been a Suns fan since I was about 8 years old. I have never disliked a player for any reason- until now. I have never cared much for Shaq. I realize that Marion wanted out, but why trade for Shaq! Come on!
JJ - Houston
We all love Shawn and will miss him a lot. Just Thinking about wataching a Matrixless Suns game would be hard. Shaq is old and slow now, no longer the same one 15 years ago. But I have to admit that Shaq can patch quite a few holes that the Suns have right now. Let's cross our fingers. Hopefully Shaq will stay healthy throughout the season. Come on guys - it seems that Shaq always bring good lucks to his NEW team. I really really want to see Nash win a ring this year.
HeatFan - Florida
Did you guys see any of the games Shaq played this year? Before his latest hip injury he looked nibble & fit and averaged 20 ppg (he did this while dealing with other ailments). What that said to me was that he was no longer motivated to play for Pat Riley. Ppl need to understand a few things here, the Miami Heat is Dywane Wade. DWade was out recovering from shoulder and knee surgery for the first month or so of the season. The team turns to him for offense and defense on queue, he has not been the DWade of two seasons ago. As such,1) the Heat are losing, 2) Shaq was not getting along with Riley, 3) Riley is obligated to Micky Arrison and Wade. Bottom-line: Something had to be done in Miami and the biggest salary on the team need to be cleared.
Look, Shaq is going to go to Phoenix and make Steve Kerr look like Jerry West. Look for Phoenix to win it all this year with his addition. Shaq is going to be more motivated to play for a team that has a legitimate chance of winning a championship. Marion will come to Miami and the Heat will barely manage to make the playoffs this year, but will again be in championship form the following year. Miami will probably also make a few more trades before the February 21 trade deadline.
You guys need to commend Steve Kerr, if not know, you will in June!!!
G-BOZ - Peoria
This is a bad decision? Are you kidding me? yea i guess that Steve Nash, Raja Bell, Amare Stoudemire and Grant Hill are nobody with out marion... NOT! Marion is who he is because of who he is surrounded by. whats gna happen when our opponent has to double team shaq or amare? the answer is if they double team either of them somebody else will be open. and with the suns 1st in the league in ppg at 109 im comfortable with anybody else taking the shot, even if were 2 deep in the bench. The suns are now the best team in the N.B.A. without a doubt in my mind. ""Shaq Stat Raja Nash Hill"" 08' finals champs! The sun will rise. and lakers fans we see your gasol and raise you one shaq! GO SUNS
Scott - Texas
Give this a chance. Everyone from Phoenix to the national press said that the Suns record was good...but something was missing. You saw the energy they had last night and I think the locker room issues being lifted helped. Shawn was great...but he had plenty of games where he was a non-factor and in the post season...sometimes he didn't show. And can everyone please calm down about Shaq running? In a break...he's not supposed to run. He's supposed to get a defensive board and toss it out to the guys running to the other side. He has the size to do that. Kurt Thomas didn't have blazing speed either...and we didn't need him to. Shaq can also make the people around him better, like Boris and even Amare. And Boris doesn’t have to compete for as much time or live under Shawn’s shadow. Shaq is not expected to be the guy he was 6 years ago...and he won't even have to play 35 minutes. He's there to keep teams from comfortably attacking the paint on us (which they do so often) and killing us on the glass (especially with 2nd chance opportunities). And he still commands an opponent's full attention...only they'll have to watch for Numero Uno too. Let's quit looking at everything one-dimensionally and watch this develop. And let's not forget how championship-caliber veteran’s tend to lose motivation when playing on a disaster like Miami. . Also have some faith in the medical staff...some of the same things about age and health came up with Grant...and it too a freaking appendectomy to get him off the court. They also helped Amare have one of the best recoveries from microfracture ever. We did not trade the whole team for one guy. It could be a great thing and this is still a great team.
ftoddy - Navajo Nation (AZ)
I will surely miss Da Matrix. He was my fave of all SUNS players past 'n present. 'TRIX, you will never be forgotten by yer fan. However, I think if the SUNS are going to past the threshold to become NBA champs, they must take risks. I will wait and see about Shaq. I will definitely remain optimistic and hope that the deal will pay off. Can't wait to see Shaq Diesel play!!
AZDAWG - Kingman, AZ
Face it, Marion was going to leave at the end of the year anyway so why not get something in return for him? I'll grant you that, Shaq is prob at best 75% of the player he used to be, but that would still rank him as one of the best thats ever played.
Renee - Arizona
We are season ticket holders for the Suns. Marion was my favorite on the team. Always wore his jersey(#31) to the games. Last night, I wore orange. So sad to see him go.(Marion) Hope Shaq gets to playing in a game soon. Obviously we still can't win as to last nights game with the Jazz. My best to you in Miami for now, Marion. Shawn truly showed the fans his upbeat personality on the court,not sure behind the scenes, what went on. He always had a playful,smiling, can do attitute on the court from what I could see. Will be watching on T.V. when it is posssible Shawn in action with the Heat. I don't believe the Suns will face the Heat again this season.
Cory - Peoria
Calm down everyone, Marion wanted out....REMEMBER!! Yes he was one of our best defenders but didn't Tony Parker make him look silly in the playoffs last year when Shawn was guarding him? All I'm saying is there's no reason for everybody to be freaking out about Marion being gone and Shaq being too old or injured. The Suns have one of the best training staffs in the NBA and Shaq WANTS to be here and wants to play well, Shawn is awesome, Im a life long Suns fan and watched his career but I hate to say it but some nights he tanked it....if you look at the box scores of some games he played Diaw like on some nights. It's good that all these haters have come out to only motivate Shaq more cuz its probably motivating Shaq to shove it down your throats, but let's just wait and see....Shaq doesnt have a season ending injury and its almost healed....wait and see what happens and reserve judgement
And to you "fans" that say you aren't a Suns fan anymore.....you weren't in the first place if you are saying that (I'm also grew up with the AZ Cardinals so I know something about being a die hard fan) =P
Linda - Abbotsford
Got to agree with Cory. I'm sure everone's still in shock over this trade, but Suns fans need to give Shaq a chance. Loved Shawn and wish him the very best in Miami, but the Suns will go on. Give them some time to adjust, then let see how it's working. Remember Cuban thought Steve too old and injury prone and critics feared that Grant Hill was too old and injury prone. Now all I hear is how Shaq is too old and injury prone. Enough already. Let give Shag the welcome he deserves and enjoy the rest of the 2007-8 season. One I'm convinced will be very long and entertaining.
Colton - Chandler
Doesnt BMW make a diesil powered sports car? I think they do. Its a big RISK but I like it. We shall see... We shall all see.
sunsfan2 - phx
Thank you SHAWN, a.k.a. the "matrix" we love you and will miss you!!! in case you read these boards. What you have done for this team in the nine years as a member will not be forgotten. Very good player. Will have to get use to seeing him in a different uniform but something tells me the matrix will be just fine. I'm still his fan
Buddy Boy ( ex-Laker, ex- Heat, now a Sun fan) - Alaska
The Suns will now win it all. I must remind you that Shaq is a 4 time winner of the Rings.
The Heat are only a shadow of themselves this year, because they gave up too many of their team players and outside shooters. That makes a difference, the difference between hitting the big shot or missing it in the 4th quarter.
Look how well the traded ones did for their new teams in Boston, Toronto, Dallas, and soon.... Phoenix. The shakeup was too much for anyone to recover. The 15 strong that were in Miami now reside in Phoenix.
Marion is a good player, but he is not a team leader and paint dominator like Shaq.
The time has come for the Sun to rise, as it came for the Heat to rise 2 years ago, and the Lakers when Shaq was MVP in the Finals for those 3 years.
The Suns can now play any type of game, regular season speed game, or half-court, slow down playoff and championship type game.
The media and the haters are wrong. They say that Shaq is washed up. That's okay. The haters also said the Giants were going to get beat in the Super Bowl.
If you thought the Suns vs.Laker games were exciting before, look at how exciting they will be with the "new attitude." Shaq brings his Sportmanship, respect, domination of the paint, and the "new attitude." You saw the "new attitude" when he first became a Laker, then when he bacame a Heat player, and now when he puts on the Sun uniform.
Don't give upon Shaq yet. Wait till the games are over, and see who gets to go to Disneyland.
forevah - North Carolina
Suns fans, do you want to win a regular season title or an N.B.A? I rather win the latter.
Resa Doodoh - Jakarta, Indonesia
I know it sounds crazy and shocking to all Orange planet citizens...but all this time, with all kind of players and all kind of systems...none of it brings Suns the championship trophy...I'm sure Kerr and coach D'antoni has something in their minds...and that is for Suns best. So...to all true Suns fan...Come on guys...this is still February...it's not over yet! Keep those Eyes on the prize...!!! GO SUNS!!!
shazamm -
MISS SHAWN MARION
Mel L - Scottsdale
I join with many of the other fans here, and express my dismay and best wishes for Shawn Marion. He has been a huge reason for watching the Suns play these last 8 plus years. The shear joy of playing the game, the large number of minutes he plays each game, and the energy he brought were electrifying. Shawn, if you read this, you have a huge fan base here in the Phoenix area. It will be harder for us to watch you now that you are with Miami. We wish you the VERY best!!!
MATRIXFAN - phoenix
Love you Shawn, we are still your fans most of us are, we will support you too!!
lauren - boston
this trade was wack.
i already miss marion
how can i possibly rooot for a team with shaq on it?
Loren Dixon - Sun City, Az
Why is it so easy to forget those every night 3 and 4 opponent rebounds and second chance points?
We have needed a big center for years. as for as
the fast breaks, Diesels rebounds will make them
faster. GO SUNS
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