Shaq For MVP?

When I consider Shaquille O'Neal for the NBA's MVP, I look at several factors, including: offensive production, defensive production, and team's performance. After comparing Shaq's stats to the stats of the frontrunner for the award, Steve Nash, I have concluded that Shaq should win the MVP. Shaq has averaged 22.9 points (12th in the league), 10.4 rebounds (6th), 2.34 blocks (6th), and shot an amazing 60.1% from the field, which is first in the league. Shaq also brought a strong defensive presence and consistently handled opposing centers. He led the Miami Heat to a 59-23 record, as the team cruised to the number one seed in the Eastern Conference. His team improved 19 games from last season, when the team had Caron Butler, Lamar Odom, and Brian Grant, who were all sent to the Lakers in the trade to acquire Shaq.

Shaquille O'Neal

Then there is Steve Nash, who averaged 15.5 points, 11.5 assists (1st), and 3.3 rebounds per game. Steve Nash is also a defensive liability, but he makes up for that with his fast paced style of play. The argument for Nash is based on the Suns improvement after acquiring the point guard this past offseason. The Suns finished with a league best 62 wins, after losing 50 games last season, by far the biggest improvement in the league. I argue that the Suns acquisition of Quentin Richardson and the growth and experience of Amare Stoudamire and Shawn Marion have also had a huge contribution to the team's improvement. Plus, I believe that Nash's supporting cast is far superior to Shaq's. Both players are great candidates for MVP, but only one can win the award, what do you think...