Why this trade works (pt 1)

Assuming we have a healthy Shaq (and I believe that the Sun's medical staff *will* get Shaq back to a semblance of his former Shaqness), then the Suns can now put 4 people on the floor who command a double team (Nash, Shaq, Amare & Grant), with the 5th option of Boris. Actually, those four might all be MVP quality players on their good days.

The Suns also automatically go to an 8 or 9 man rotation with Nash, Shaq, Amare, Grant, Raja, Leandro, Boris, Brian and DJ, with Tucker now providing the Vinnie Johnson role. I'd like us to have a decent backup at the 1, but that's easier said than done. Although, because we now have a true low post option, the dropoff when Steve leaves the floor will lessen.

But on paper, this team is scary good. You've got a frontline that can average 60% fg, a backcourt than can average 50% fg, and 45% from the 3 pt line, and the flexibility to go from speed ball to slow ball in an instant. And now they give up fewer 2nd chance points, and make it more difficult for the other teams big man to have a career game against us.

I expect to see Steve Nash *shatter* Scott Skiles assist record before too long.