I think this year so far has proven Shaq's value. I don't think anyone would say that the Lakers would have the same record as now if it was Kobe out and Shaq playing. Shaq dominates a game like no one else. When he comes back (and I hope he doesn't rush it and re-injure his toe) the Lakers will start to win. They may not win enough to take home court, but they will still be the team to beat.

I would love to see Shaq and Kobe play in the Olympics. It is tough on the players that make it to the finals. Jordan used to say that by the time the Bulls were done in late June, there was virtually no time to recover before the conditioning started for the next season. I don't care for the "I feel an injury if Jackson doesn't coach the team" statement made by Shaq, though.