Yao isn't even a free agent until the end of the 2009-2010 season so it's awfully early for speculation. Besides, Yao would be leaving a ton of money on the table by leaving Houston, about $31 million lost over 5 years if he signs a max contract elsewhere. Houston is a only player or two away (or maybe a healthy Tracy McGrady) from being a high seed.

Rasheed is a #4. Playing center is not his game, as he was forced to play center in Detroit after Ben Wallace signed an FA deal with the Bulls. The Pistons tried Nazr Mohammed, then Kwame Brown at center, but ended up having to to play both McDyess and Wallace at the 5 spot. Rasheed is most effective as a #4 which allows him to run high pick and rolls and step out for the 3. This was his in game in Portland and with the Pistons. He essentially plays the role as Z.

The Cavs are better off with Shaq. They need a guy who stays in the paint and does all his work in the paint. Shaq already has a title with 2 of the 3 best players in the game, Kobe and DWade. Ya think that winning a title with LeBron would be a big deal with Shaq?