Former Los Angeles Lakers center Shaquille O'Neal may have alienated fans in the manner which he departed the Lakers after the 2004 season, but few will deny his importance while he was there.
O'Neal was the driving force behind three consecutive Lakers' NBA championships and four Finals appearances, and was arguably the most dominant physical force of all time.
O'Neal's departure was followed by several seasons of misery for the Lakers which included missing the postseason for only the second time in the history of the franchise, and two first-round exits shortly after.
Los Angeles acquired Pau Gasol from the Memphis Grizzlies during the 2007-2008 season, and the fortunes of the franchise changed immediately, as Gasol helped the Lakers reach the Finals the very same year.
The Lakers lost to Boston in the 2008 Finals but won the NBA championship each of the next two seasons, and if Los Angeles reaches the Finals this year it will equal four Finals appearances in four years.
O'Neal led the Lakers to four Finals appearances, but not consecutively, and if Gasol is able to clinch his third straight championship, he will equal ...
Read Full Article at Bleacher Report - NBA
Article written by Hadarii Jones
Pau Gasol, Shaquille O’Neal: Who Is a Better Fit for the LA Lakers?
October 12th, 2010 by Hadarii Jones Leave a reply »
Advertisement