I'm not trying to crucify your team Roy, I just think it's somehing you seem to be conveniently overlooking.
I just don't see 30 to 32 as being that old, nick. I don't think I'm conveniently overlooking it, I just don't think it's the case. Look at the championship Celtics. Look at the championship Bulls. They all had guys who were that age, or older. There are plenty of other examples, too.
As for Shaq, he's not the player he was five years ago, no question. However, he was an all-star last season and led all qualified players in FG%. Could he drop off a cliff this season? Sure he could. I just don't think it's very likely. When Shaq is motivated, he's still one of the best centers in the NBA, even at this advanced stage.
As we've said in the past, though, Portland's fate will be decided at the six-month mark. At that point, we'll see how much decline our guys have shown. If you're proven right, we'll admit it. If our guys are cruising along and are healthy, though, I hope other people (not necessarily yourself) will be equally candid and admit it, as well.