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 MIAMI (AP) - Shaquille O'Neal's availability for the start of the Eastern Conference finals was shrouded in mystery Saturday, his bruised right thigh still a source of concern. However, the Detroit Pistons aren't necessarily believing the story.
O'Neal practiced with the Miami Heat on Saturday, participating in some 5-on-5, full-contact, full-court basketball for the first time in 11 days. He was held out of some later portions of the workout, a move designed so that he wouldn't overtax the sore muscle that has bothered him for five weeks.
Still, he was noncommittal about being ready for Monday's Game 1 with the Pistons, saying he "hopefully" would be in the Heat starting lineup against the defending NBA champions.
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