Shaquille O’Neal believes the Los Angeles Lakers have improved their roster but remain incomplete without adding a reliable sharpshooter. The Hall of Famer shared his thoughts in an interview with CasinoBeats.com, highlighting the importance of shooting in today’s NBA.
“They have a legitimate big now, got two premier players,” O’Neal told D.J. Siddiqi. “I’m still worried about the shooting. It’s a three-point league now. Not guys that can shoot, [I’m talking about] bonafide shooters. Guys that are guaranteed, like JJ Redick.”
The Lakers’ roster already includes Luka Doncic, LeBron James, Austin Reaves, and Rui Hachimura — all of whom shot above league average from beyond the arc last season. O’Neal acknowledged their strengths but argued that consistency from deep is what sets contenders apart.
With Deandre Ayton anchoring the middle, the Lakers look poised to contend in the upcoming season. However, O’Neal’s comments point to a potential gap in their offense that could prove costly in the playoffs.
The Lakers finished last season with a modest 36.6% team three-point percentage, ranking in the middle of the NBA.
Los Angeles made several offseason moves, acquiring Ayton, Jake LaRavia, and drafting Lachlan Olbrich and Adou Thiero, but did not add a proven shooter in the mold of Redick or Kyle Korver. The front office may still explore trade or free agent options before opening night.
O’Neal praised the team’s balance and called their chances “much better now” compared to previous years. Still, he maintained that a guaranteed shooter could make the difference between competing and winning.
