The 2023 Eastern Conference Playoffs were filled with exhilarating matchups and unexpected outcomes. The top-seeded Milwaukee Bucks endured a shocking first-round exit, courtesy of the 8th-seeded Miami Heat. Meanwhile, the 2nd-seeded Boston Celtics faced formidable challenges, contending against the Atlanta Hawks and the formidable duo of Harden and Embiid in the Philadelphia 76ers, only to fall short in the conference finals against the resilient Jimmy Butler-led Miami Heat.

In his playing days, NBA legend Shaquille O’Neal experienced stints with both the Miami Heat and the Boston Celtics, winning his final championship with the Heat in 2006. Moreover, Shaq did not like what he saw and he expected more from the home team in game 7.

Shaquille O’Neal expressed his disappointment with the Boston Celtics’ approach to game 7

For the second consecutive postseason, the Boston Celtics endured six defeats on their home court at TD Garden. In the post-game analysis on The Inside Guys, Shaquille O’Neal weighed in, expressing his belief that such performance does not reflect championship-caliber play. With a championship position on the line, Shaq would have his team play with a different mindset. According to the Lakers legend, there was a perceived lack of leadership and maturity from Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown. There was no need to play ‘hero ball’, which, in his opinion, hindered the Celtics’ path to the finals.

Shaq emphasized his stance by stating, “If my team starts the game 0/10 in the first quarter, I’m telling everybody don’t shoot another three, shoot another three and I’m punching your face”

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The 4x times NBA champion also gave his take on the Celtic’s coach Joe Mazzulla. Shaq reflected on Mazzulla’s coaching role after the Celtics’ failure to reach the finals. Charles Barkley blamed the coach for the team’s failure, while Shaq held a contradictory stance on the matter.

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Wherein, the 15x all-star believes great players don’t need a coach to motivate them for the ultimate prize.

How do Butler and the Heat match up against Jokic and the Nuggets?

Butler and the Heat dominated the Celtics in the must-win game, leaving them helpless on both ends of the court. Moreover, Boston’s offensive struggles were evident throughout the game, as they failed to find any semblance of sustainability. The Celtics’ defensive efforts were equally underwhelming, unable to contain the relentless onslaught from the Miami Heat. It was a dominant performance that showcased the Heat’s superiority, leaving no doubt about their prowess on the court. Shaq himself showed his approval of the Heat forward Butler’s performance by giving him a warm hug after the game.

The Denver Nuggets, on the other hand, have undeniably asserted their dominance in the playoffs, sweeping the Lakers. Led by the formidable duo of Nikola Jokic and Jamal Murray, the Nuggets have displayed remarkable performances, surpassing the likes of LeBron James, Kevin Durant, and seasoned veterans.

Both teams have demonstrated their resilience and ability to rise to the occasion, setting the stage for an exciting and fiercely contested NBA Finals matchup.

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What’s your take on this? Share your views in the comments below!