Bringing Shaq to the desert was the right move for Suns' GM Steve Kerr. The Big Cactus has won four championships in the last seven years and could very well add another with Phoenix.

Plus, at nearly 37-years-old Shaq is still the most dominate big man in the NBA, when he wants to be. And, after watching his debut against the Lakers - 15 pts, 9 rbs in 29 min - it looks like a Suns uniform has cured Superman's Miami hangover.

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Still, there's more to this trade than just Shaq's age, injuries or his willingness to play in a full press offense. Mostly, this trade is about the Suns taking a big chance on winning it all, something fans hardly experience in this day and age of pro sports.

That's why I'm just tickled that Phoenix risked trading a four-time All Star for an aging giant. And, I hope that Suns fans understand just how special and rare a trade like this is for any organization.

Far too often pro teams put off the now for the future. And, typically that future comes without championships. Make no mistake, acquiring Shaq is all about the now for Phoenix.

On the other hand, this trade is interesting for several other reasons. First, there's the question of a hobbled Shaq fitting in with the Suns' run-n-gun style offense. Secondly, the big man's contract still has two years and $20 million dollars left to pay him. And finally, what does this deal mean for Miami?

"Kobe who?" Shaq was the NBA Finals MVP in 2000, '01 & '02

I believe O'Neal will mesh well in the Suns' offense. Against the Lakers O'Neal cleaned up some tough boards and didn't get in the way of Phoenix's 20 fast-break points. Plus, Shaq is disciplined enough as a player to stay within the role coach Mike D’Antoni defines for him.

Although some injuries have slowed Shaq in recent years, none have ever crippled his post season play. In fact, as recently as Shaq's first season in Miami he played through a deep thigh bruise while nearly leading the Heat past mighty Detroit in the Eastern Conference Finals. Then, in Shaq's second year on the beach Miami finally won its championship.

Conversely, a ring in year two isn't exactly an option for Stevey Kerr. The first-year GM has placed a high stakes bet on Shaq to win the ring this year.

Obviously, if Kerr's trade goes as planned he'll be hailed as being brilliant for making such a risky move. However, if the Suns stumble in the playoffs, Kerr will be dealing with an often-injured, $20 million dollar bench warmer. So, good luck Steve-o.

Still, it took a lot of guts for Kerr to make this trade. The Suns’ window of opportunity to win a ring is nearly shut. The time for taking a risk in Phoenix is now and Kerr had the confidence to pull the trigger. I like that about him.

Kerr also thought about trading for Will Ferrell and Heidi Klum

As for Miami, in dumping O'Neal they get rid of some highly expensive and highly unmotivated dead weight. Having already missed 16 games this season, Shaq was far from contributing to this team's growth.

On the flip side, I doubt there are hard feelings in Miami. Sure, in the end Pat Riley and the Diesel were at each others throats but, they still accomplished their goal of winning a championship. Plus, I think Shaq's presence really helped build the confidence of Dewayne Wade.

Insert Steve Nash on the right

Now, the Heat are once again headed in the right direction. Next year Wade should be fully healed from his ongoing arm injuries and the addition of Shawn Marion and reserve point guard Marcus banks will strengthen the lineup around D-Wade.

In all honesty, this has truly served as a good trade for both teams, especially if Phoenix wins it all.

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