http://lakersblog.latimes.com/lakersblog/2009/08/lakers-schedule-shaq-kobe.html Let's pray that no Laker gets another Freak injury in Memphis. Or in anywhere for that matter. Also, try reading one of the comments there. Says that Sasha suffered a minor knee injury. Hope it's just BS.
I think Marc was ranked as the #1 player in Europe at the time. I think the reason they accepted the trade was to get Marc.