The Rudy Gobert drama is far from over. Draymond Green is among those who believe that the Frenchman has elevated his defensive game. However, Shaquille O’Neal isn’t ready to give his approval. Recently, Big Aristotle stirred the pot with harsh criticism of Gobert. On the other hand, the latest guest on the Knucklehead Podcast has just offered an opinion that could win O’Neal’s approval.

While discussing the infamous snub of Kenyon Martin from the All-Defensive Team, former NBA player Josh Smith voiced a thought similar to O’Neal’s. It is that Gobert’s efforts and records weren’t enough for him to win the Defensive Player of the Year (DPOY) this season. “No disrespect the Rudy…but he shouldn’t have won this year,” Smith argued. He further criticized the criteria and voting system.

There was speculation that Victor Wembanyama might surpass him, but ultimately Gobert won the title, becoming the third NBA player to secure four DPOY honors. As mentioned, this didn’t align with the NBA legend’s perspective. However, Green had a distinct take when he appeared as a guest on The Big Podcast with Shaq. The Warriors star believes Rudy’s defensive game has improved over the years, and that he actually deserved the title this year.  

“What I will say is this. I think Rudy Gobert has gotten a lot better defensively now than what he was years ago. This year was the first time that I thought he actually deserved to win Defensive Player of the Year,” Green said.

Shaq has stuck to his opinion, and after his latest claims on The OGs, it’s likely he will continue to do so.

Shaquille O’Neal sees Rudy Gobert in the Hall of Fame!

Following O’Neal’s previous criticism of Gobert’s defensive performance and contract, Gobert didn’t hesitate to respond. The Los Angeles Lakers legend had stated that the Timberwolves star was the worst player, to which Gobert fired back, accusing Shaq of making those comments just to stay relevant.

However, Shaq reminded Gobert and others that he has 15 commercials, insisting there’s no need for him to pull stunts for attention. “When I speak, I try to speak from facts. It may come out wrong and you may think I’m hating. His comment, ‘you’re trying to stay relevant,’ I got 15 commercials. What the f*** you talking about?” Shaq argued according to SI. He’s already accomplished much more than that. In the podcast, Shaq once again explained the situation. 

Udonis Haslem present on the show agreed with. He reiterated that as a Defensive Player of the Year (DPOY), a player must anchor the team’s defense, leading with strength and versatility. He emphasized a DPOY should be able to guard in all situations without becoming a liability. Since the beginning, Shaq has consistently made this point. 

However, Gobert also has support from figures like Green. As Shaq mentioned, the only solution for Gobert to silence critics is to win a title and prove his worth.

Stay tuned for more such updates and join us for the exciting second episode of the “Dual Threat Show” as our host BG12 sits down with Georgia Bulldogs star and Mountain West All-Freshman Team Selection, Asia Avinger.