Shaquille O'Neal averaged 23.4 minutes per game for the Cleveland Cavaliers during the 2009-10 season. It's hard to believe that's going to happen again, but don't tell him that.
Upon coming to Boston, Shaq continually reassured management and fans that he was happy to take on a smaller role than he had in seasons past, but he said on Tuesday after his first practice that he expects to play about 20 to 25 minutes per game.
He may be in for a surprise. Even before Kendrick Perkins returns from injury, Shaq will be splitting time in a crowded frontcourt. Jermaine O'Neal, who played more minutes than Shaq this past season, may continue that trend going forward, and Glen Davis is sure to want more time than his 17 minutes per game from last year. Add in Semih Erden and Luke Harangody — players with more upside than Brian Scalabrine — and Shaq's piece of the pie is only even more limited. Kevin Garnett isn't recovering from injuries anymore, either.
Still, Shaq does know that he can't do it all, and hopefully he won't take issue when he doesn't get the playing time that he expects.
"My game is real limited. I know to look for Garnett. I know to look for my shooters. I've always played with great shooters," he said, according to The Portland Press Herald.
"I've had an unorthodox, illustrious career," he said. "Unorthodox. Illustrious. Two big words in a row."
NESN.com will showcase one Moment of Shaq every day until the Celtics open the season against the Heat on Oct. 26 at the TD Garden.
Tuesday, Sept. 28: Shaq enjoys first Celtics practice.
