In a recent conversation with sports analyst Stephen A. Smith, NBA legend Shaquille O’Neal delved into the ongoing debate about who stands out as the superior player between Joel Embiid and Nikola Jokic.
“They’re both great players,” Shaq expressed. “But if Joel doesn’t win, you’re gonna kill him. You, your show, Big Perk, JJ Redick. Joker has that edge. He’s one. Even though the numbers are different.”
Reflecting on his own experience, Shaq shared an story about a past interview where basketball icon Kareem Abdul-Jabbar remarked on Shaq’s skills, emphasizing the importance of winning championships.
O’Neal continued, “Joel Embiid is a fabulous talent. Definitely number one/number two. But if he doesn’t win in this world we live in, you’re gonna kill him.”
Despite being the reigning MVP, Joel Embiid has yet to secure an NBA championship, while Nikola Jokic, a back-to-back MVP preceding Embiid, led the Denver Nuggets to victory last year.
This season, Embiid has been a force, leading the NBA in scoring with impressive averages of 34.9 points, 11.7 rebounds, and 5.9 assists in just 34 minutes per game.
In contrast, Jokic, who was a strong contender for a third consecutive MVP last year, is currently contributing 25.5 points, 11.8 rebounds, and 9.3 assists in 33.3 minutes per game.
As the debate over their respective greatness continues, Shaq’s insights highlight the weight placed on winning championships in determining a player’s legacy, particularly in the context of Embiid’s remarkable individual achievements.
