NBA contracts are a mixed bag. Teams pay some players in numbers that far exceed their actual value. Simultaneously, they often undercut the contributions of other players. This might just be the case for a former MVP. He recently signed a two-year deal with the LA Clippers, and fans have been trying to wrap their head around the agreed-upon value. Though he has been consistently criticized throughout his NBA career, even Shaquille O?Neal considers the valuation “crazy”.

In a viral clip of Stephen Jackson posted by Shaq, the former NBA champ reflected on his disbelief at the new Clippers contract.

O’Neal and Jackson cannot believe this former MVP’s contract

After the announcement of the new contract deal, many fans were shell-shocked by the details. Stephen Jackson?s reaction caught the eye of the world as he couldn?t believe the terms proposed by the Clippers. In the viral clip, Jackson was full of praise for the re-signed player. Soon after, Shaq took to his Threads account showcasing his support for Jackson’s claims about Russell Westbrook.

Post by @shaq

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“$ 8 million? That’s crazy,” exclaimed Stephen Jackson. In the video, he described how less committed players are signing huge contracts while a true hooper like Russ gets undermined.

Furthermore, Stephen highlighted how some players couldn?t match the intensity that the former NBA scoring champ brings to every game he plays. ?You don?t value something until it?s gone?, added Jackson. Clearly, Stephen Jackson and 4-time champion Shaquille O’Neal feel that Russ was fleeced by the LA team.

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Jackson and Shaq consider his hustle to be invaluable when it comes to team success. After all, it’s one of those things that doesn’t show up on the stat sheet.

Russell Westbrook is one of the hardest workers

It’s clear that his true value surpasses the reported contract of $ 8 million across 2 years. But this could be one of Russ’ last attempts at a championship before his athleticism naturally begins to decline. That might explain the reasoning behind this pay cut.

Throughout his career, he’s proved himself to be a key element for his team?s success, guiding them through deep playoff runs and consistently performing at a high level.?

Westbrook’s talent significantly enhances the winning percentage of any team he plays for. The 9-time all-star’s explosive athleticism, unmatched playmaking skills, and boundless energy make him a formidable presence on the court. When Russ’ shot isn’t falling, that’s when his ability to boost his teammates’ performance becomes even more essential.

Many fans and analysts view this $8 million contract extension as an undervaluation of Westbrook’s skills and his contributions to the game. Do you agree?

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