I actually would expect JO to play before Shaq. Doc said last week that he felt Shaq could be effective in the playoffs without any warmup games, but said he thinks JO needs to get a rhythm if he is going to be effective for the playoffs. So, I think they will be more inclined to get JO into a handful of games before the playoffs than they will with Shaq.
Yeah, I would agree with that.
Jermaine O'Neal usually needs time to play himself back into shape. To work off the rust in his game and get back to making decisions at game speed. He also has problems trusting his body again after sitting out with an injury and needs games to build up his confidence in his physical capacity. So yeah, I think Jermaine is a guy who needs to get some games under his belt before the playoffs start.
Not worried about Shaq (in this regard). He'll be fine. He knows his body, what he is capable of physically and staying within those limitations and working his game around those limitations. A very good understanding of his physical capacity + his skill-set unlike Jermaine. Shaq will be fine.
Shaq came back late last year for Cleveland (start of playoffs after sitting out since late February) and he was ready to go from the first game. No concerns about a late return from him.