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Problems from all directions surrounded the Los Angeles Lakers this season. From coaching to their roster, nothing went right for them. Likewise, they made their first move towards change by letting go of Frank Vogel. Now, purple and gold legend Shaquille O’Neal has offered his services. However, it is going to cost them a fortune.

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As a player, the Big Diesel etched his name in the history books. In his illustrious career, he won 4 championships. As a Laker, he successfully led the organization to a three-peat with Kobe Bryant. Hence, his heart runs all purple and gold.

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Even when the hopes were minimal, Shaq was one who believed in the Lake show this season. And now he wants to be more involved. O’Neal said with the coaching spot vacant, he is willing to fill it up. But he has a demand worth $25 million from the Lakers.

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Shaquille O’Neal will cost the Lakers big

It was pretty evident that the Lakers don’t have the right formula. Vogel was unfortunate to not have the right players for his style of play. Despite it not being his fault, Vogel became the one to face the fire. But this has brought out an opportunity for the Lakers to explore their options. And Shaquille O’Neal is willing to take the role. But he has two conditions.

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Shaq said: “If the Lakers offer me $25 million a year for 4 years, I’ll coach the Lakers. I need a 4-year contract. I’ll coach them right now.”

The $400 million net worth giant is asking for a sum no NBA coach earns. The current highest-paid coach in the NBA is the coach with the most wins in NBA history, Gregg Popovich.

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The Spurs coach is estimated to make around $11.5 million every season. With Shaq’s demands, he is asking for more than double in only his first stint as a coach. While the salary may not be met, Shaq could surely add a different perspective to the coaching space.

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With NBA legends coming up coaches, do you think the Lakers should entertain this offer? Let us know your views in the comments below.

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Anuj Talwalkar

4,483 Articles

Anuj Talwalkar is a senior NBA Newsbreak specialist at EssentiallySports, trusted for his real-time coverage and fast, accurate updates on league developments. With five NBA seasons and two Olympics coverages under his belt, Anuj stands out as the go-to reporter for the NBA Matchday Newsdesk. As part of the EssentiallySports Journalistic Excellence Program, he continuously refines his hard reporting with grounded storytelling shaped by fan culture and court-level insights. An economics graduate and lifelong OKC fan since the Supersonics era, Anuj combines analytical thinking and a genuine passion for basketball. He’s recognized for both his live news coverage and feature writing, with aspirations to someday interview Russell Westbrook. Anuj’s reporting is marked by its reliability, depth, and strong connection to the pulse of the NBA.

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Arunaditya Aima

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