I have a problem with the difference between affect and effect, but I don’t want to waste time trying to figure out the real answer. The purpose of this post is to describe what my eyes see when I’m watching the Cavs.
Now, M and T can supply all those stats which prove a player’s +/- (or is it -/+) and their ORtg vs. DRtg, even their net. I understand the importance of measurement - afterall, in business we’re all about measuring performance to show improvement and to provide comparisons to our competitors.
However, all I can say for sure is what my eyes see and my brain processes. In that convoluted world, I can tell you that Shaq changes the game - mostly in the Cavs favor.
It was most obvious in the Lakers game when Bynum was totally intimidated. Even in last night’s game against the Rockets - Shaq was largely responsible for stopping their first quarter momentum. He missed several easy shots, but he still managed 13 points and 11 rebounds.
It’s plain to see that when he gets the ball down in the low post, he’s virtually unstoppable. Even in this stage in his career, he is “a very bad man”.
So, all the naysayers can complain about how he isn’t the player he once was, how he can’t defend the pick and role very well, and how he’s lost his shooting touch. However, don’t tell Da-white and Bynum that. As Mike Brown says, they were feeling him.
Besides, we’ve got Andy to defend and Z to shoot for him.
So, I’m thrilled right now with the Shaq Effect (Affect?) - thank you. He might not be the original Superman any longer, but he might be just enough of a knight in shining armour to help “The King” get to the promised land - with Sir Moon and Sir Parker providing battleaxes when required.
Oh, and don’t forget Sir Powe is still back at the castle shining up his chainmail to enter the fray just as the battle really heats up.
Holla at Danny Ferry
Dad
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