NBA icon Shaquille O’Neal has weighed in on Luka Doncic’s MVP potential, predicting that the Dallas Mavericks phenom has one MVP award in his future.

During an episode of Insider the NBA, O’Neal confidently stated that he sees at least one MVP trophy in Doncic’s future.

However, fellow NBA legend Charles Barkley raised a counterpoint, citing the Mavericks’ current standings in the Western Conference as a potential hurdle for Doncic’s MVP aspirations.

Barkley argued that for Doncic to be a serious MVP contender, the Mavericks would need to secure a higher position – at least top four – in the West, emphasizing the importance of team success in the MVP race.

The debate between O’Neal and Barkley also delved into the criteria for MVP consideration, with O’Neal emphasizing individual performance while Barkley stressed the significance of team achievements.

At just 25 years old, Doncic has been putting up staggering numbers, averaging 34.6 points, 9.1 rebounds, and 9.9 assists per game, solidifying his status as one of the league’s premier talents.