Free-agent center Shaquille O'Neal is reportedly in the midst of heavy contract negotiations with the Boston Celtics, the team that beat him out of the playoffs last year.
This deal is supposedly going to be finalized within a week or so, according to many media sources. Shaq is also quoted as saying that he hopes to make a decision about his future soon.
One main problem with the deal is that the Celtics can only offer Shaq the veteran minimum, $1.35 million for a veteran of at least 10 years.
That's where the Cleveland Cavaliers comes into play. If the Cavs would go along with it, they would be able to facilitate a sign-and-trade type deal with O'Neal. This type of negotiation would only need to take place if Shaq required more money to sign a deal.
Shaq had a $20 million contract last year with Cleveland and has accrued a total of almost $291 million in basketball contracts alone.
The only thing bringing down Shaq's asking price is the overall disinterest from the league regarding his free agency.
The only two teams that have ever really been negotiating with him are the Atlanta Hawks, who were the main fron ...
Read Full Article at Bleacher Report - NBA
Article written by Chris Grinstead
NBA Rumors: Shaq Close To Signing With Boston Celtics
August 4th, 2010 by Chris Grinstead Leave a reply »
Advertisement