"Shaquille O'Neal might take a little getting used to.

During one play late in the opening session of training camp yesterday at Salve Regina University, Shaq set a mild-mannered pick on Rajon Rondo, who instantly disappeared from radar. It took several minutes before the Celtics were able to establish visual contact with their point guard.

Where Kendrick Perkins is regularly called for moving screens, O'Neal simply sets up and lets his size work for him. Opponents must take a $5 cab ride to get around and by.

Speaking of getting around, Shaq hasn't yet taken in the Newport sights.

"They have mansions here?" said His Immenseness, who evidently was napping on the bus ride to the college ampus that winds past some of the famed homes on Bellevue Avenue.

Shaq wasn't sleeping on the court, however. Coach Doc Rivers praised his conditioning and, having been around so long, it's clear O'Neal won't need much remedial work on the plays."