One game does not define a season. But that did not stop Charles Barkley from making a wild claim during the Boston Celtics’ matchup against the Los Angeles Lakers. Despite missing their 2 superstars Anthony Davis and LeBron James, the team finds themselves ahead of the Celtics. As a result, it brought out the overreactions from Chuck, albeit in a lighthearted manner. However, the bigger story coming out of the half might be the one concerning the C’s.

Due to the efforts of the Lakers led by Austin Reaves, the team had a comfortable lead. As a result, Barkley jokingly added, “They’re better without them,” referring to LeBron and AD. As the crew broke into laughter, the conversation changed gears to Boston.

However, with new reports emerging about a potential trade for James and Davis, the situation appears dire in La La Land. Could this new-look, no-superstar lineup be the future for LA? Or, are they going to add a third star to their mix?

While the Lakers’ struggles continue, Boston has been among the better teams of the season. However, their performance over the last 2 weeks has the Chuckster questioning his newfound fandom. More specifically, 3 games in particular. The Round Mound of Rebound wasn’t willing to mince any words.

“I’m almost off their bandwagon…I’ve watched them twice against the elite teams in the last 2 weeks. This team tonight is going to make my point even more. 2 weeks ago…Denver went in there and spanked them…The Clippers come into town…And they stomped them. Now, I’m looking tonight. They win games on talent, they don’t win on toughness and defense.” 

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Over 2 weeks, the team seems to have lost the pulse of Charles Barkley and brought out a harsh reality check from Shaquille O’Neal.

Shaquille O’Neal reveals harsh truth about the Celtics

After going against them all night, Shaq was willing to offer up a similar diagnosis, as this was a matchup that Boston was supposed to win. “Without LeBron and AD, these guys are supposed to be up 30. But you’re playing down to your competition and you’re not having that killer instinct…When you have that Championship focus and mentality, it doesn’t matter who’s on the court, we have to beat you…This is why they’re not Championship-ready yet.” 

With some cracks appearing on the Celtics’ impeccable armor, can the team turn the conversation around?

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