The Suns and Cavs have been talking for a while now, but finally now reaching an agreement. The Cavs will trade G Sasha Pavlovic, PF Ben Wallace, their 2009 2nd round (46th) draft pick and some cash to the Suns for Shaquille O'neal. The only thing both teams will be waiting for is approval from the owners.
Shaq averaged 17.8 pts/game 8.4 reb and 1.7 assists in the 2008-2009 season. The Cavs believe now they have a force who can stop, or somewhat contain Magic PF Dwight Howard. Now the Cavs can focus their attention on a tall, athletic defender to guard the perimeter.
It is said the Cavs and Suns considered getting the deal done with a 6 team trade. The Suns look to gain almost $10 Million with this deal. Look for the Suns to possibly buyout Ben Wallace and cut Sasha Pavlovic to lose some payroll.
Another source said if the Shaq deal did not happen, the Cavs had a plan B. That was to trade and get New Orleans Hornets PF Tyson Chandler. He would have taken the Cavs out of getting more free agents in 2010. Shaq only has one more year on his contract, which could give the Cavs a chance to go after other big free agents like Raptors PF Chris Bosh.
The Cavs still have the 30th pick in the first round and are considering buying a draft pick somewhere else in the draft.
Finally the Cavaliers have a Center who could be strong in the low post. Do you think Shaq will give the Cavs what they need? I think he still has some gas left, this could be exactly what they need. Watch out for some other free agent signings. This could get interesting!!!
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