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For those who think Shaq is on the decline, realize that with the addition of Karl and Gary, Kobe's numbers declined as well. Lets take a look:
Kobe:
In 02-03, he averaged 30 points, 6.9 rebounds, and 5.9 assists per game. He also averaged 2.21 steals per game.
In 03-04, he averaged 24 points, 5.5 rebounds, and 5.1 assists. He also avearged 1.72 steals per game.
Overall, this past season he averaged 6 less points, almost a rebound and a half less, and nearly an assist less per game than he did in 02-03. In addition, he shot a slightly lower percentage from the field and three point range. To his credit though, he turned the ball over less this past year.
Shaq:
02-03: Averaged 27.5 points, 11.10 rebounds, 3.1 assists, and 2.37 blocks per game
03-04: Averaged 21.5 points, 11.50 rebounds, 2.9 assists, and 2.48 blocks per game.
Just like Kobe, his scoring decreased by 6 points per game from the previous year. His assists per game barely decreased, and his blocks per game and field goal percentage (led the league) barely increased. His rebounds per game slightly increased.
Ya Shaq is older and only played 67 games this year, but he did the same the previous two years as well. Kobe only played 65 this year.
Numbers don't always tell the whole story, but I think they clearly indicate that both Kobe and Shaq were affected by the presence of two new additions to the team.
The blanket statements of "Shaq on the decline" should at least be changed to "Shaq, like Kobe scored 6 less points per game this year". But that still leaves the need for an explanation on why Kobe didn't share the ball as much and rebounded with less.
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