NBA legend Shaquille O’Neal does not like to be compared with other legends. While he appreciates their greatness, he does not like it when someone talks his game down when compared to others, even if it was the great Magic Johnson who compared Shaq with his former teammate, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar. And Shaq reminded Magic that there is only one person who sent Michael Jordan home.

When Shaq moved to the Los Angeles Lakers from the Orlando Magic, there were huge expectations that he would lead them back to the top. But his first three years ended with playoff disappointments. And Shaq put up MVP-level numbers, but his game was called one-dimensional.

Also, his inability to hit a free throw in late-game situations was questioned. And his arsenal of moves was arguably very limited.

Shaquille O’Neal reminds Magic that he defeated Michael Jordan in the playoffs

Just before the start of the Los Angeles Lakers’ dominance, there were questions about Shaquille O’Neal‘s game. Particularly from the legends of the past, Magic Johnson and Kareem Abdul-Jabbar. Both of them were worried that Shaq’s limited game and free throw difficulties.

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Magic even said, “I love Shaq, but he needs another shot. Kareem had more moves. Shaq needs the drop-step move Kareem had.” 

“Ever thought of having Kareem in to show you a few tricks?” the interviewer asked Shaq.

And to that, Shaq replied emphatically, “Ahh, bro. I’ve got all that. I just ain’t showing it yet. And remember: I’m the only one who sent Michael Jordan home.”

Shaq was proud of his accomplishments, and he was not shy to remind Magic of the past. Shaq had achieved something that Magic was never able to do. And that was to beat Michael Jordan in the playoffs. In fact, there was no team or star who could beat Jordan once he came to his prime.

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And Shaq’s reign soon started. He had one of the greatest seasons as a player in 1999 and he subsequently won the MVP award. And he won three titles in a row and three Finals MVP awards with the Lakers. In those three years, the NBA hadn’t seen such a dominant force since perhaps the days of Wilt Chamberlain. And he formed one of the greatest duos in NBA history with the late great Kobe Bryant.

Where do you rate Shaq amongst the greatest NBA players of all time? Share your thoughts in the comments below.