“Kinda Went Crazy”: Shaquille O’Neal Left Unimpressed by One Half of New Bucks Superstar Duo

Due to the player movement era, superstars need to alter their play style to account for their teammates. Because multiple superstars converge on the same team, each player is required to share the spotlight to some extent. As a result, an ‘unselfish’ superstar finds it easier to accommodate his superstar counterpart. According to Shaquille O’Neal, that unselfishness might be a cause for concern if done too much. So the Los Angeles Lakers legend feels like Damian Lillard needs to take the onus upon himself to be more of a scorer.

“Yeah, I saw Dame didn’t score. Because early in the game, he’s looking for the other guy, which happens to be Giannis [Antetokounmpo]…But, right now, he’s getting his guy going. He’s saying, ‘Giannis, yes this is your team, Imma get you going. But make sure you get going.'” 

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But that is where the big man feels the Milwaukee Bucks need to find a balance. “Listen, we know Giannis is going to be very decisive and go for his. But, Mr. Lillard, you can play too and this is what you do. This is what you’re known for. When you have your shot, I urge you to hit. Of course, get your guy involved, but you gotta go for yours too. So, he kinda went crazy there at the end of the 2nd quarter.” 

Despite both teams crossing the 70-point mark, Shaq’s analysis feels a bit off. While Dame Dolla has been phenomenal in dishing the ball, he’s gotten a fair share of baskets of his own. However, Shaq’s final warning does have some merit to it.

“But I would like for them to have a more comfortable lead. Coz you can’t play with a team like the [New York] Knicks.” 

Thankfully, the Bucks did take his warning to heart.

The Milwaukee Bucks pay heed to Shaquille O’Neal

A closely contested game for most of 3 quarters eventually blew open in the fourth. Thanks to a relentless barrage of attacks from Giannis and Dame, the Knicks’ defense could not handle the offensive firepower.

As a result, a 3-point game at halftime became a 24-point rout. With both superstars looking for their shot, it became an inside-out masterclass. While the Greek Freak, who is no longer Superman according to Shaq, would finish with 35 points, Dame, too, wasn’t far behind at 28.

With a balanced scoring approach between the two, Milwaukee got a clearer view of the team’s vision when making the move for Dame. So far, it looks like the dividends are paying off.

Read More: Giannis Antetokounmpo and Damian Lillard’s Teamwork Outshines Julius Randle – 3 Takeaways as Bucks Reach IST Semi-finals