Shag Takes a Shot at Jackson

Wow, we must be bored these days. After all, isn't this supposed to be the time of year when everyone forgives and forgets? Well, not for Shaq and Phil Jackson.

Maybe it is because Riley has won a championship and has started to reclaim the greatest living coach tag. Maybe it is because Phil is just bitter than Riley made it look easy doing so with his ex-asset, Shaq.

Shaq was done, wasn't he? Isn't that what Dr. Buss and his braintrust, Phil among them, agreed? Go with Kobe, Shaq is done.

Phil couldn't resist. When asked a question about Kobe's work ethic, he remarked that the only superstar player he coached that didn't like to work hard was Shaq.

Why Phil? Why did he make this comment? To get back at Shaq for something? And what was it for?

It doesn't matter, as it lead to a "Benedict Arnold" comparison from Shaq to his old coach, Phil. If anything, this securely locks Pat Riley into Shaq's mind as the greatest coach he has and will ever play for.

Or is that what Phil is reacting to?

After all, since Riley had to listen to the "Phil Jackson-is-the-greatest" speil for years, it is now his turn. And he actually did it his way, with players he drafted and traded for. Phil has done it with what was given to him. He was given the keys to a Ferrari. All he had to do was drive it.

Pat Riley had to build his own.

Interesting to note was Riley's reaction, who quickly supported O'neal's work ethic while the Diesel has been with the Heat. And anyone watching the Heat of late would notice that Shaq is not slacking. Certainly not as much as when he played for the relaxed Phil Jackson.

Maybe Shaq didn't need a "zen master" but perhaps a drill sergeant. After all, Shaq's dad was one.