Shaq’s Prediction For Lakers’ 2024-25 NBA Season Causes A Stir

Shaquille O’Neal is one of the most beloved players in Los Angeles Lakers history.

Because of that, his takes on the team generally receive a lot of attention.

This week Shaq appeared on Pat McAfee’s show and offered his thoughts on how the Lakers’ upcoming season will turn out.

“That is the LeBron show, LeBron is in charge over there,” Shaq said.

“I think personally they’re gonna have a rough start. And what I mean by that is that it’s all about respect. And if I’m a guy who has played 7, 8 years and I’m getting a young coach who I think I was a better player than, there’d going to be a level of disrespect there.

“LeBron and Anthony Davis will do a great job of keeping everybody in order but you always said that if you really respect your coach you will really go out there and play hard. I was fortunate enough to play with Phil Jackson and Pat Riley because I knew they knew what they were talking about. All the other coaches,s there were times where I was like ‘I don’t know if that’s gonna work.’”

Fans had some strong reactions to Shaq’s take:

This is the second time in recent days Shaq has seemingly taken an anti-Lakers stance.

The first came with his strong take on J.J. Redick’s first season in L.A.

One way or another, Shaq will either be proven wrong or right when the 2024-25 NBA season tips off. Which one it will be remains to bge seen.