Shaquille O’Neal Dishes Out What Hurts the Most for Joel Embiid Ahead of Nikola Jokic Match-Up

Making a pick between two players, Shaquille O’Neal has often justified his decision with a logical analysis. This time, the Big Aristotle had to choose between Nikola Jokic and Joel Embiid, who are set to face off for the first time this season. What’s iconic is that the two are fighting for the top spot in the MVP race and whoever wins the battle today might win the big honors soon. But before that, let’s hear who Shaq chose. “This year imma give the night to Embiid,” said the 4x NBA champion, but let’s not jump to a conclusion yet.

Shaq believes Jokic was the better big man in the last few years. In fact, the Los Angeles Lakers legend has openly criticized the Cameroonian sensation for his lack of competitiveness inside the paint. But this year, Shaq believes Embiid is “dominating”. However, the 2023 MVP has a few things to be concerned about. O’Neal added, “Embiid with all the struggles he has had, I heard somebody say the other day that even though we rate him a great big man, he still hasn’t made a lot to stick around.”

But on the other hand, Shaq believes Jokic has let the game come to him naturally. Hopefully, Embiid can change the narrative starting today.

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Shaquille O’Neal was not fond of Joel Embiid’s lack of ownership

‘The Process’ has made it to the playoffs several times in his career. However, he has not found a lot of success in the postseason. The last time he was in the postseason, the Sixers lost a 3-2 lead to the Boston Celtics in the Conference semi-finals.

After losing the series, Joel Embiid blamed his teammates, claiming he and James Harden did not have enough support. This did not sit well with Shaq. The big man criticized, “He’s 6-11, he’s not posting up. He’s shooting jumpers, and then you’ve got the nerve to say, ‘Me and James (Harden) can’t do it by ourselves?’ Get your big a** down in the paint.”

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This was in May 2023. Several months later, Shaq has given the big man his flowers. However, there is a long way to go. Last playoffs, Big Diesel, without any hesitation, chose Nikola Jokic as the better center. Do you think Joel Embiid can inspire Shaquille O’Neal to choose him as the better one this time?