Here’s what went down Monday on Gambo & Ash.

Gambo flew solo today with Ash on vacation.

Sunsplash - Gambo shared his thoughts on the Shaq deal, the draft, and STAT’s future. Gambo knew the writing was all the wall for Shaq to get dealt because it simply made sense for both parties. He confirmed the Suns could deal Ben Wallace for Tyson Chandler, but wonders if Chandler is damaged goods-especially after Oklahoma City backed out of a deal late last season. As for Amare, there certainly was/is interest from Golden State, but had second thoughts after seeing Steph Curry fall in their lap with the seventh pick. The Suns are in a wait-and-see approach with Stoudemire, but he still could be dealt this summer or next season after teams are convinced his eye and knee are properly healed.

The Matrix Returns? - The Suns are free-agent shopping with the usual suspects including Von Wafer, Chris Wilcox, Antonio McDyess, and Joe Smith. John reported the club would be interested in signing former Sun and fan favorite Shawn Marion if/when the Raptors release him. The team could offer him a mid-level deal if recently acquired Ben Wallace’s salary is dumped. Gambo thinks the 31-year old ‘Trix would be steal at $5 million a year-especially with Steve Nash likely to return. This could pick up more steam if free-agent Grant Hill inks a deal with the Celtics or Mike D’Antoni’s Knicks. The Cavs are also interested in signing Marion if he’s released by Toronto as is expected to make room for free-agent Hedo Turkoglu.

Reynolds Rap - Mark Reynolds spoke out Friday after another disappointing loss, then let his bat do the talking Sunday blasting a game-tying 3-run homer as the Snakes won their first NL West series in months. Gambo was excited some player, other than non-leaders Tony Clark and light-hitting Chris Snyder, ripped into himself and his teammates and feels Reynolds is becoming a clubhouse leader, something this team desperately needs. He also feels Reynolds is deserving an all-star spot next week in St. Louis-especially since he could compete in the Homerun Derby, as well. Gambo is certain the Snakes are closer to being a contender than people think-especially with a core of young talent like Reynolds, Upton, Stephen Drew, Dan Haren, and Gerardo Parra.

Diamondbacks’ right fielder Justin Upton checked in to share his thoughts on being selected to his first all-star game yesterday. J-Up is hitting .300 with 14 homers, 45 RBI’s, and 10 stolen bases. He also said he’s hopeful deserving teammate Mark Reynolds joins he and Dan Haren at the All-Star festivities next week in St. Louis.

Playing for Himself - Mark Reynolds comments after Friday’s loss hit home to many of his teammates, but Gambo wonders if the specific player Reynolds was referring to was second baseman Felipe Lopez. Yes, the lead-off hitter is batting around .300, but John is certain Lopez is a dog and the D-backs’ staff knows it. Gambo feels he’s the most likely to be moved before the trade deadline because clearly Lopez’s mind is no longer focused on playing baseball here in the Valley.

Fifteen - Roger Federer won his record-setting 15th Grand Slam championship defeating a game Andy Roddick Sunday in the Wimbledon finals. Gambo was drawn-in by the 4-hour, 16-minute marathon and found himself pulling for Roddick-a guy he’s never been a fan of in the past. John is certain A-Rodd isn’t thinking about moral victories today, but might when reflects back on the epic match later in his career.

Meet Me in the Middle? - The Suns are busy working the phones looking at various trades and free-agents. One player that’s high on their list is Steve Nash who’s contract expires following the upcoming season. Gambo says Nash, arguably the best point guard in the last several years, deserved to be treated well by the Suns, but wonders if Nash is worthy of being a “max player” like reports say he’s requested. The two-time MVP wants $15 million a year. John thinks $10 million is a more reasonable number that both parties can agree on, but isn’t certain a two-year extension is a wise decision.

We were joined IN-STUDIO by Cardinals’ first-round pick Chris “Beanie” Wells. The former Ohio State star is expected to compete for the starting running back slot with second-year pro Tim Hightower. The Cards open camp at the end of the month in Flagstaff. He discussed his emotions on draft day, playing for the defending NFC Champions, and how he feels playing with a number of Michigan Wolverines here in Arizona.

4TH of July Tragedy - When most Americans were celebrating our independence Saturday, former quarterback Steve McNair lay dead on the floor of a Nashville condo. Married with four sons, McNair was reportedly having an affair with a 20-year old girl who was also found dead at the scene. One of the NFL’s “good guys,” Gambo wonders now how McNair, arguably the most popular player in Tennessee Titans history, will be remembered. He is taking a wait-and-see approach until we know more details, although everyone suffers consequences for the decisions they make. This certainly doesn’t exclude McNair.

Keeping Double D? - One of the hottest names in trade talks has been lefty Doug Davis who’s pitched much better than his record indicates. Gambo says you can’t help but notice his 3.15 ERA and the amount of innings he’s pitched not just this year, but in the recent past. John reported the D-backs may be interested in re-signing Davis, instead of dealing the steady starter for a couple mid-tier prospects which the market is bearing right now.

Tweeting His Future - Darnell Dockett made a big announcement via Twitter. OK, maybe not, merely announcing that he had confidence in the Cardinals’ organization and that he not going to holdout of training camp later this month. Gambo is amused and somewhat annoyed that athletes are revealing their futures on Twitter. Gambo hoped Dockett was going to announce he was firing agent Drew Rosenhaus like teammate and fellow Florida State star Anquan Boldin did earlier this year. John doesn’t feel Rosenhaus is a good agent and frequently fails to do what’s best for his client like he has with Dockett and Boldin.

Benchwarmers - A.J. Hinch made a statement Saturday benching Chris Young and Felipe Lopez for their lackluster play in Colorado the night before. “CY” mis-played a fly ball in center and Lopez failed to cover second base on two separate plays. John feels this could go a long way as Hinch attempts to hold players accountable on, and off, the field.

Mark Asher returns from vacation Tuesday.

Tuesday we’ll be joined by A.J. Hinch at 3:00 and Mark Reynolds at 5:10