Shaquille O’Neal weighed in on the ongoing debate over LeBron James’ Lakers legacy, addressing whether the four-time champion deserves a statue outside Crypto.com Arena.
Speaking with NBA insider Brandon “Scoop B” Robinson, O’Neal acknowledged James’ achievements in Los Angeles but also pointed out the demanding nature of Lakers fans.
“LeBron broke the record, and he did it as a Laker,” O’Neal said. “Would I oppose him having a statue in Los Angeles? No, I wouldn’t. If they want to give him a statue, I’d be fine with that.”
O’Neal emphasized James’ greatness but noted that Lakers fans always expect more.
“But the thing about the Lakers is, their fans are real greedy,” O’Neal added. “Okay, you got us this bubble championship, but when are you going to get us another? It’s always that.”
James led the Lakers to an NBA title in 2020, securing his fourth championship and the franchise’s 17th overall.
However, some critics have questioned the legitimacy of the Lakers’ bubble title, arguing that the neutral environment in Orlando lacked the usual playoff pressures.
O’Neal dismissed that notion, comparing James’ championship to Tim Duncan’s first title with the San Antonio Spurs in 1999, which came during a lockout-shortened season.
“If that one doesn’t count, then you can’t count Mr. [Tim] Duncan’s bubble championship either,” O’Neal said. “That’s right. I said it! If we’re counting Tim Duncan’s lockout-year championship, then you have to count LeBron’s too.”
Several Lakers icons have already been honored with statues, including Johnson, Abdul-Jabbar, Shaq himself, and the late Bryant, whose statue was unveiled earlier this year.
James, now 40, remains one of the league’s top players, averaging 24.5 points, 8.1 rebounds, and 8.5 assists per game this season.
The Lakers (45-29) currently hold the fourth seed in the Western Conference as they push toward another deep playoff run.
