I've heard all the experts and pundits criticize the Lakers for trading away Shaquille O'Neal. They are right, of course. Trading the most dominant interior force since Wilt Chamberlain does seem ridiculous. However, unlike the majority, I'm hesitant to write off his former team.
The Lakers downfall in The Finals was a poor supporting cast. Gary Payton was invisible. Karl Malone was hurt and they couldn't find anyone to fill his production. Anyone recall any significant contributions from the bench? Bryant may not have Shaq to lean on next season, but he will have three more quality teammates. That's three more than showed up in The Finals.
The Lakers of 2004-2005 will not be as tough as this year's model. There is no way to replace a player of Shaq's magnitude. What the Lakers might have is a more balanced lineup. Lamar Odom and Caron Butler can play. Brian Grant isn't quite as good as he once was, but can still do some dirty work inside.
If Payton stays, Malone re-signs and Kobe can keep himself out of prison, Rudy T. will have a few more pieces to work with in '04-'05 than Phil Jackson did this June. Trading Shaq certainly won't make them a better team, but I'm not convinced the Lakers are going to fall off the coast just because the big guy is gone.
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