Shaquille O’Neal, also known simply as “Shaq,” has never been shy about sharing his opinions on the NBA, and his comments on players like Rudy Gobert and Ben Simmons have made headlines once again. However, the Hall of Famer and four-time NBA champion remains unfazed by the backlash that often accompanies his candid takes.
In his signature unfiltered style, Shaq recently made pointed remarks about Gobert and Simmons that stirred up reactions across social media and the broader basketball community. Yet, true to form, Shaq is standing by his statements, even daring his critics to “shut me up” on the court.
Shaq’s Criticism of Rudy Gobert: A Closer Look
Shaquille O’Neal has long been known for his sharp takes on fellow big men, particularly when it comes to their contracts and performance on the court. Rudy Gobert, the towering center for the Minnesota Timberwolves and one of the NBA’s premier defenders, has been one of Shaq’s frequent targets.
In a recent interview, Shaq questioned whether Gobert’s hefty contract—worth $205 million over five years—truly reflects his impact on the game. Shaq argued that while Gobert is an elite shot-blocker and rebounder, his offensive game is limited, making him less of a threat compared to the dominant big men of the past, including Shaq himself.
“I’m just saying, if you’re making that much money, you’ve got to be putting up bigger numbers,” Shaq said. “I averaged 28 points a game for my career. You can’t just be getting paid for defense and rebounding.”
These comments sparked outrage among Gobert’s supporters, who were quick to point out that defense is just as valuable as offense in today’s game, and that Gobert’s presence in the paint is invaluable to his team’s success. But for Shaq, the bottom line is clear: offensive firepower separates the good from the great.
Ben Simmons: Another Target for Shaq’s Candid Critique
Shaq’s critique of Ben Simmons is rooted in frustration over unfulfilled potential. Simmons, the former Philadelphia 76ers guard now with the Brooklyn Nets, has faced heavy criticism for his reluctance to shoot the ball, particularly from beyond the arc. Despite being one of the most versatile and athletic players in the league, Simmons’ offensive struggles have overshadowed his other talents.
O’Neal has repeatedly expressed his disappointment in Simmons’ lack of growth, especially after Simmons sat out most of the 2021-2022 season due to mental health challenges and a lingering back injury. Shaq’s take on Simmons has been harsh, but he insists it’s only because he wants to see the young star succeed.
“I’ve been where Ben Simmons is—playing in a tough city like Philly isn’t easy,” Shaq said. “But you can’t shy away from the moment. I just want to see him reach his potential. The talent is there, but you’ve got to be willing to put in the work.”
Simmons, who has been attempting a comeback with the Nets, has remained relatively quiet in response to Shaq’s criticism. But fans and analysts alike are eager to see whether Simmons will rise to the occasion or continue to struggle with the same issues that have plagued his career thus far.
Shaq’s Legacy: A Unique Voice in NBA Commentary
Shaquille O’Neal’s presence as an NBA analyst is as dominant as his career was on the court. Known for his humor, candor, and larger-than-life personality, Shaq has become one of the most recognizable voices in sports media. However, his no-holds-barred approach to commentary often divides opinions, particularly when it comes to his critiques of modern NBA players.
Many current players have taken issue with Shaq’s comments, arguing that his style of play and the era he dominated are different from the modern game, where spacing, shooting, and defensive versatility are more valued than sheer power and size.
Yet, Shaq remains undeterred. For him, the metrics of success haven’t changed—points, rebounds, championships, and individual accolades are still the ultimate measure of greatness.
“I know the game has changed, but greatness hasn’t. I hold these guys to the same standard that I was held to,” Shaq said in a recent podcast appearance. “If that makes me a hater, then so be it. But I’m not going to apologize for demanding excellence.”
The Backlash: How Shaq Handles Criticism
It’s no surprise that Shaq’s blunt remarks have drawn the ire of some fans and players. Social media has exploded with debates over his treatment of Gobert, Simmons, and other players. But while the Twitterverse might be ablaze with hot takes, Shaq remains unfazed by the noise.
In response to those criticizing him for being too harsh, Shaq issued a challenge: “If you don’t like what I’m saying, then shut me up. Go out there and prove me wrong.”
This attitude is reflective of Shaq’s competitive nature, a trait that has carried him from being one of the most dominant forces in NBA history to becoming a larger-than-life figure in popular culture.
The Impact of Shaq’s Comments on Today’s NBA Stars
Shaq’s outspoken nature has undoubtedly had an effect on how modern players approach the game. While some may view his criticism as outdated, others take it as motivation to prove him wrong. Gobert and Simmons are just the latest in a long line of players who have had to endure Shaq’s public critiques, but how they respond—on and off the court—will be telling.
Gobert, for his part, has largely remained focused on his game, letting his defensive prowess speak for itself. Meanwhile, Simmons faces a more daunting challenge: not only does he need to rebuild his reputation, but he must also reclaim his place as one of the league’s brightest talents.
Whether or not Shaq’s words serve as a catalyst for their improvement remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: Shaquille O’Neal will continue to speak his mind, regardless of the consequences.