At this point in his career it is foolish to suggest that Shaq is the main reason that Miami is a "contender". Miami is currently sitting below .500 for the season. Shaq hasn't played half the season due to injury.

The reality is we don't know the full capabilities of this team this season because Shaq and Dwayne Wade haven't been healthy. Shaquille O'Neal has seen a decline in scoring and rebounding and has admitted as far back as last year that he is completely satisfied with Dwayne being the main guy. He doesn't question that, he supports it.

Miami has players like Gary Payton and Antoine Walker who don't put up consistent numbers anymore. The entire rest of the roster is iffy. They are an older group who have lacked defensive presence. The lone exception is Alonzo Mourning who really filled in admirably while Shaq was out and still is a warrior with his shot blocking and rebounding.

Let's lay down the facts.

1. Miami doesn't even have a winning record.

2. Miami will not be a playoff force without Dwayne Wade.

Learn more about this author, Joshua Norman.
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