It's Official: Suns Get Their Shaq

Star center passes physical, leaves struggling Miami for West power
By Nick McMaster,  Newser Staff
Posted Feb 6, 2008 6:15 PM CST
It's Official: Suns Get Their Shaq
Phoenix Suns guard Marcus Banks poses for photos in Phoenix Oct. 1, 2007. Banks and forward Shawn Marion are being considered for Heat center Shaquille O'Neal in trade talks that went from rumor to near-reality overnight. The last major roadblock was the 14-time All-Star center passing a physical. A...   (Associated Press)

Center Shaquille O’Neal is now a member of the Phoenix Suns after he passed a physical exam, the final barrier to the completion of his trade from the Miami Heat, the Associated Press reports. The Heat—which has the NBA's worst record at 9-37—exchanged O'Neal, 35, for forward Shawn Marion and guard Marcus Banks.

"I think it gives us a better chance to win, and a better chance to win in the playoffs," said Suns general manager Steve Kerr, who acknowledged concerns about O'Neal's age and recent injury history. Phoenix, at 34-14, has the best record in the Western Conference but hasn't met expectations; the move helps the Suns keep pace with recent moves by the Los Angeles Lakers. (More basketball stories.)

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