Toronto Raptors Trade Jermaine O'Neal For Shawn Marion! [SPORTS]

It's probably for the best...welcome to the city Shawn!

After weeks of discussion, the Toronto Raptors have ended their brief experiment with centre Jermaine O'Neal. Sources have confirmed the club has traded O'Neal and swingman Jamario Moon to the Miami Heat for forward Shawn Marion and guard Marcus Banks in a deal designed to free up salary-cap space this summer, and to solidify the team's underperforming small forward position. Toronto will also send a conditional draft pick to Miami, and receive cash considerations.

Read the rest of the story here.

The Raptor's most significant trade acquisition in franchise history.

The Rap's start a 7 series exhibition game match against the Cav's in Cleavland tonight and there are some big expectations for Mr. O'Neal! I for one, am holding him to very high standards, and expect him to earn his salary! ($21 Million this season)

Sam Mitchell, has his doubts, as I am sure do a lot of other folks in the city.

I've seen great players go one of 15 in an exhibition game and then go for 40 [points] on opening night and light you up for real," Mitchell said. "Veterans players are just trying to get through the preseason without getting hurt."

More on this story at the Globe&Mail. If you have ticket connect in the city make sure you e-mail me!

The pause button is stuck!

Not once, not twice (3:50 mark), but thrice! Courtesy of Eskay via Smoking Section