NBA Superstars LeBron James and Kevin Durant Open Up on Retired Players Criticizing Young Players

Last night, Donovan Mitchell had an amazing game and led the Utah Jazz to their seventh consecutive victory. Despite the performance, NBA legend Shaquille O’Neal criticized the Jazz superstar in the post-game interview for still lacking what it takes to reach the next level. Following this critique by Shaq, many NBA superstars such as LeBron James and Kevin Durant spoke up.

Mitchell was sensational vs the Pelicans, scoring 36 points while draining six out of his eight three-pointers from the field. In fact, this season he is averaging 24.3 points per game on sensational shooting splits.

But it appears as if Shaq chose to ignore these numbers from Mitchell. As a result, Mitchell gave a befitting reply to the former NBA superstar.

Kevin Durant and LeBron James on Shaq’s criticism of Donovan Mitchell

Following the “feud” between Mitchell and Shaq, Cuffsthelegend posted an image on Instagram. In the IG post, he asked a question if the young players are being sensitive to constructive criticism by NBA legends? Here’s what LBJ and Durant had to say about it:

“There is a difference between constructive criticism and soft hating,” said LeBron James.”I’ve seen it both ways come my way, mostly the hate. You can hear it in their delivery.”

While LeBron’s reply was quite subtle, Nets’ Kevin Durant didn’t hold back one bit. He replied:

“Them old heads need to go enjoy retirement. These boys have coaches they work with everybody lol.”

Although constructive criticism is a tried and tested method to push a player, sometimes people tend to go overboard. Shaq’s recent interview with Mitchell is a shining example. Shaq’s words came out as a shocker since the Jazz are having an incredible season with Mitchell leading the side from the front.

Utah is in a perfect spot to clinch a high seed in the playoffs, unless they fall off in the second part of the season. What are your thoughts on the recent controversy between Mitchell and Shaq? Let us know your views in the comments section down below.