NBA’s Big Guns make strategic signings
Posted on 16. Aug, 2009 by admin in Basketball, Sports
There’s no doubt in my mind that last season’s NBA playoff series was one of the best the world has witnessed in a long time. If not for the embarassing missed lay-up by Courtney Lee in the final second of Game 2, Dwight Howard’s unfortunate inability to produce in the games where it counted and Kobe Bryant’s enviable unstoppability (if that’s not a word, it is now) then the NBA Final would have lived up to the reputation of it’s previous rounds and capped off THEE best playoffs ever. Nonetheless we cannot dwell on the past as a new season begins in under two months and judging by the big four’s trades, this may just be the hardest fought title win to date.
Shaquille O’neal to CLEVELAND CAVALIERS
The Cavs may have acquired the key to winning the NBA title in the 15 time NBA All-Star. Shaq has spent an astonishing 17 years in the NBA and despite his age (37) and slowing down over the years his experience, power, presence and improved shape will prove a huge asset to last year’s semi-finalists. The deal is set to make Shaq $20million richer in the 2009/10 season as Ben Wallace and Sasha Pavlovic head to Pheonix Suns as part of the trade. Can the 7ft 1 inch veteran give the Cavs their first american championship win since 1964?
Ron Artest to LA LAKERS
As if the Lakers team weren’t strong enough, they go and swap Trevor Ariza for the versatile and physical Ron Artest. Artest is said to have signed a three-year deal worth $18.7million which may rise to a five-year deal worth $33.5million. With an already formidable strong offence in the likes of Bryant, Odom, Gasol, Bynum and Fisher it was imperative they captured the signing of one of NBA’s elite defenders. The question lingers though..Can Artest work his role in tandem with so many big name players?
Rasheed Wallace to BOSTON CELTICS
Some may wonder why the Celtics have decided to invest in yet another veteran; but why break a successful formula? Wallace may well be one of the most astute signings of the summer and one that could have Doc Rivers sporting a huge grin by the end of the season. He’s a 6ft 11 scoring threat (close-up and 3 points), a team player, a winner, a huge defender and not to mention FREE! Rondo, Garnett, Allen, Pierce and now Wallace. Are the Celtics entering yet another ground-breaking season?
Vince Carter to ORLANDO MAGIC
All NBA Fansand critics would love to see veteran Vince Carter pick up an NBA Championship and Ring just for the amazing moments he’s provided for Basketball. Orlando Magic could well be the team he can win it with. His credentials are there for all to see, an array of dazzling skills, strength, precision and power. At 34 he is still going strong and through him Orlando have now found the missing entity in their complete starting line-up, a shooting guard. His trade sees Rafer Alston, Courtney Lee and Tony Battie go the other way to the new Jersey Nets. Is Vince Carter the missing link to Orlando’s championship campaign?
