Shaq is a Celtic. Say it with me now: Shaq is a Celtic. Take a moment; let it sink in. We’ve just got to accept it, you and I. Because even though it defies all logic, Shaq as a Boston Celtic is now a reality.
Make no mistake about it, Shaq is one of the all-time greats in the game of basketball. He’s a sure-fire hall of famer who was dominant at his position for years. But unlike most other players who could be considered all-time greats, Shaq has never really settled in anywhere. Sure, he spent some good years, won some titles, in LA. But before that he was the marquee player on the expansion Orlando Magic. After that, he blew through Miami, Phoenix, and Cleveland en route to his most recent stint of between-teams.
For all his talent and raw physical skills, Shaq’s best playing days are behind him. So why is he heading to Boston? And why does Boston want him?
First question first, why does Shaq want to be a Celtic? It isn’t for the money. $1.3 million isn’t worth getting out of bed for if you’re a half-billionaire like Shaq. It isn’t for a shot at winning the title. Been there, done that. A thumb in the eye to the Lakers and their fans? I don’t think so. Although the fact that signing with the Celtics would deeply wound those Lakers fans still loyal to him didn’t dissuade him, I don’t think it was his motivation, either.
So why, then? Maybe to catch up with Kobe in the championship department. It is possible that he’s just that shallow. Maybe to go out on a high note – let’s face it, his tenure didn’t exactly end well in Orlando. Or LA. In fact, I don’t think he’s had a truly amicable separation in his career. Maybe he just wants to prove that he’s not a bad guy.
For the other question – why do the Celtics want Shaq, there’s an easy answer: Bill Walton. The Celts captured lightning in a bottle by taking on an over-the-hill, formerly great center and rejuvenating him. It worked once. Why not try again?
