Anything involving a 7'1" 325-pound behemoth has to be big. In the case of the trade that landed Shaqille O'Neal in Phoenix and all the subsequent effects that will be felt, any size-indicating adjective is inadequate. Championship hopes, new roles, and widely varying expectations all came to the forefront when the Diesel rolled into the desert yesterday, and none of them will be answered until the season's end.

The first thing that everyone who has an opinion on this trade has to come to terms with is that this sudden and unexpected move by the Suns cannot be ruled "good" or "bad" until the postseason is over. Shaq could very well stink up the floor in the regular season while the team tries to adjust with him, only to give the Suns that half-court playoff element they've missed over the last few years.

There is no debate that the Diesel will have a profound effect on his teammates. Already, he's alluded to "Project Stoudemire," stating that he plans on helping Stoudemire become the best power forward in the league. Suns staff would be thrilled if Stoudemire indeed learns post footwork and shooting from the former MVP.

That statement, along with his goal to win the fifth and sixth championships of his career, bring a charisma, optimism and swagger that hasn't been seen in a Suns uniform since Sir Charles Barkley rolled into town. That can only help the Suns in the lockerroom, where bickering and veiled comments were the rule of the day.

Optimists point out that with both Shaq and Stoudmire patrolling the paint, penetration should be nigh unto impossible. In a conference featuring the likes of Tony Parker, Chris Paul, Deron Williams and Kobe Bryant, that theory will be sorely tested. The Suns will also watch with trepidation when their defense as penetrated, knowing that Shaq and Stoudemire are the two most foul-prone big men in the league.

Also, how will Shaq affect Phoenix on offense? He's saying the right things now by professing how he'll start the break with his rebounding and outlet passes. How will Shaq feel after three or four consecutive fast breaks that conclude before he even makes it across half-court? Will he complain about lack of touches? Or will coach D'Antoni alter the offense slightly to take advantage of his talents in the post?

The biggest question mark concerning O'Neal is his health. The Suns might even be ok with O'Neal healing himself as long as necessary, hoping he'll be healthy and fresh for the playoffs. O'Neal's health status only highlights the fact that this team is suddenly much older, with O'Neal, Grant Hill, Steve Nash, Amare Stoudemire and Raja Bell all having had injuries and/or health issues in the not-too-distant past.

Because of his health, it's doubtful that Shaq will play more than 30 minutes a game, which should increase the load carried by Boris Diaw, who tends to be more productive with more consistent minutes. Also, by trading two smaller positions for a center, rookie DJ Strawberry has already seen more minutes, and responded well last night with 11 points on 4 of 6 shooting and stingy defense. Will D'Antoni be willing to change/expand his rotation permanently with the sudden decrease in the guard/forward department?

Ultimately, the effect of Shaquille O'Neal on the Suns for good or evil can't be measured until the Suns win the championship or fall short in their attempt. Until then, a lot of questions need to be answered, and all of them come back to the Big If.