Shaquille O’Neal Throws Dennis Rodman Under Fire to Plead Draymond Green’s Case

In a classic case of the old-school versus new-school mentality, the discussion around the league’s latest suspension is fascinating. Due to a storied career of violent, and unsportsmanlike moves, Draymond Green is facing an indefinite suspension. But the issue seems far deeper than toughness and competition, with various people pointing to the mental challenges Green is going through. However, on the other hand, are the likes of Shaquille O’Neal. “There is nothing wrong with Draymond.” That is how the big man started his discussion on the matter.

Making an appearance on the Rich Eisen Show, O’Neal was his usual candid self on all basketball matters. But, when it came to the allegations and suspension of the Golden State Warriors star, Shaq had a different mindset than most. To him, there is even a precedence to the case.

“This is the way he’s been. That’s the way [Dennis] Rodman has been his whole career. Make him a Hall of Famer.” Instead, he had a different perspective while continuing with the Chicago Bulls legend’s example. “So, you want him to come in and not be himself? That’s never going to happen.” The host would chip in with her perspective on the 4x Champion’s comparison, saying Rodman did it smartly by making sure the other guy would react first. 

Then, O’Neal went into a tirade about the double standards when talking about Dray. “That’s the way he’s been playing since he came in the league. He been going back and forth with the refs, he’s been getting techs, he’s been, you know, making contact with people…A lot of people don’t know he grew up around Detroit Bad Boys. And he said, ‘Hey, when I was 6’3″-6’4″, this is the way I had to play for people to notice me and it’s earned him respect. And it’s earned him 4 championships,” the 51-year-old exclaimed.

“Now, all of a sudden he needs help? Back when he was winning Championships nobody was saying that. But now all of a sudden…That’s the only problem I have with this thing.” But, the 7-footer wasn’t done.

Rather than incite Green, he would instead deem the latest incident “unlucky”.

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Shaquille O’Neal continues to defend Draymond

Even though the list of such incidents continues to grow longer, the former MVP chose to focus on the latest scuffle. That came as a result of a spinning back fist by Green to Nurkic of the Phoenix Suns. After prior altercations with Domantas Sabonis and Rudy Gobert, the NBA’s decision was justifiable.

However, Shaq feels differently. While some bring Stephen Curry’s leadership into question, O’Neal has yet to see a problem in Draymond’s actions. “The only mistake he made is that he had his arms out like that. So, when somebody is close to you and you spin, you’re going to make contact.”

Do you think O’Neal’s analysis of the situation is correct? Or is Draymond truly in need of help? Let us know in the comments below.

Read More: Does Draymond Green Deserve an Indefinite Suspension?