There is a certain amount of respect that the current generation has to levy on the ones who came before. While the talent gap is noticeable, they were the ones to pave the way for today’s superstars. For months, JJ Redick was under scrutiny for his bold comments about the previous generation. But, the situation has gotten worse with time.

Even though a certain amount of respect prevails, some youngsters are taking it too far. Recently, a Charlotte Hornets player has spoken about the same gap. While the first leg of his comments were towards LeBron James, his focus has seen a shift. Now, his sights are on Shaquille O’Neal. While outrageous, let’s look at what the former 19th overall pick has to say.

The 22-year-old Shaquille O’Neal dominator?

During his two seasons in the league, Kai Jones is on the trajectory of developing into a role player. While his team has found no modicum of success, his numbers are steadily improving. But, his recent comments look far away from reality.

While he’s solid enough, his comparisons have gone from names like LeBron to Shaq. After disrespecting James, his words about the Los Angeles Lakers legend are a little far-fetched. Due to his comments about LeBron, another user claimed, “U not beating prime Shaq tho.”

Taking offense to his comments, Jones made the claim, “I’ll cook prime diesel in here.” While his confidence in himself is inspiring, it does seem far removed from reality. In his 67 career games, Jones is averaging 2.7 points, 2 rebounds, and less than half an assist a game.

By comparison, LeBron averages nearly ten times the points per contest after over 1,400 games. Similarly, Shaq’s career numbers hover around 24 points and 11 rebounds a night. To put it mildly, the comparison is ridiculous.

However, the Shaq thing isn’t the first of Kai’s extravagant comments.

Kai vs James

In a previous statement, the 22-year-old took off on James. Jones claimed that he could beat the 4-time MVP in a one-on-one. Even though his confidence is astounding, the facts belie his comments.

Read More: While the World Awaits for LeBron James to Enter His 21st Year, Shaquille O’Neal Surprisingly Calls to Put Some Respect on Kevin Durant’s Name

While LeBron embarks on a journey for Team USA, the extra attention from Jones’ comments could add further fuel to the fire. However, Jones’ comments are one in a long line of disrespectful takes on the current stars to the ones from yesteryears.

Even though Shaq might not “Barbecue Chicken” his way to dunks against him, Kai’s comments could spell trouble for him the next time he faces off against the King. 

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