When it comes to evaluating players, Shaquille O’Neal is pretty outspoken. Since retiring from basketball, he has made a fortune working as a successful NBA analyst. However, he was all praise for Zion Williamson and believes the New Orleans Pelicans would be a formidable postseason contender.

Zion Williamson had a frustrating last season. The former first overall pick was held back by his injury as he recovered from a fractured foot. His ability to avoid injuries has been a source of concern ever since he stepped foot into the league. His physical fitness was also a topic of hot discussion in the NBA for a while, as he visibly looked overweight.

However, the forward must be striving to complete his redemption arc as he prepares for a solid comeback this upcoming season. Zion Williamson has trained tirelessly in the offseason and seems to be in peak shape.

Furthermore, Shaq believes Zion will lead the New Orleans Pelicans towards an impressive run next season.

Shaquille O’Neal believes the Pelicans will put on a good show and compares Zion’s physique to Anthony Adams’

On The Big Podcast, O’Neal was asked who he believed would be the team that didn’t make the playoffs last season but would be a powerhouse in the 2023 playoffs. “I’m going with the New Orleans Pelicans,” Shaq said, expressing absolute confidence in the young squad.

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Shaq then compared Zion to Anthony “Spice” Adams’ Th*t Daddy alter ego. He said referring to Zion, “Big boy is back, he’s looking good. He looks like Spice in the “Th*t Daddy Off.”

For those who are unfamiliar with Th*t Daddy Off, it was a competition on their podcast in which Shaq and Adams locked horns to show off their physiques. They both removed their shirts and flexed their muscles. While Shaq appeared to be in great shape, Anthony Adams, like Zion Williamson, appeared to have a bulkier build, prompting Shaq to compare their physiques.

Shaq went on to claim that Zion Williamson will dominate next season. He said that the forward is returning with a vengeance to quiet those who have questioned his durability and physical fitness.

Well, one of those individuals who pointed fingers toward Zion includes Shaq’s good friend Charles Barkley. Seeing a warm-up clip in which Zion looked out of shape, Charles Barkley didn’t hold back his honest opinion. “It looks like me and Shaq had a baby,” Barkley said. Shaq was also alongside Barkley when he said this and had a hysterical reaction.

Nonetheless, Zion Williamson now looks to be in the best shape of his life as he gears up for a redemption season.

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How would the Pelicans star fair next season? Shower your thoughts in the comments section below.