Cavs swoop for Shaq

The Cleveland Cavaliers have completed a blockbuster deal to acquire Shaquille O'Neal from the Phoenix Suns.

Cleveland has given up centre Ben Wallace, guard Sasha Pavlovic, a second-round draft pick (top-40 protected) and cash to unite the future Hall of Famer with current NBA MVP LeBron James.

Cleveland general manager Danny Ferry told the Cavaliers' official website: "It is a really unique and rare opportunity to bring in a player of Shaq's calibre."

"We are excited to see how his presence, experience and play positively impacts our team."

"We truly appreciate all that Ben and Sasha gave to this team and community in their time here. They were good team-mates and we wish them nothing but success."

O'Neal, 37, was drafted first overall by the Orlando Magic in 1992 but really came of age following a move to the Los Angeles Lakers in 1996, winning three consecutive NBA titles in a dynamic partnership with Kobe Bryant.

The success continued when he was traded to the Miami Heat in 2004, leading the franchise to its first championship two years later.

O'Neal, a 15-time all-star, was voted the NBA's MVP in 2000, and the top performer in the all-star game in 2000 and 2004.

He was also named the MVP of the NBA final three times in a row, equalling a feat accomplished twice by Michael Jordan (1991-93, 1996-98).