Shaquille O’Neal has never shied away from critiquing NBA big men, and in a recent interview he revealed Joel Embiid may not welcome his style of feedback.
Speaking with HoopsHype’s Sam Yip, O’Neal explained that while he used to direct “tough love” toward players such as Dwight Howard, he does not currently have many targets in today’s game. The Hall of Famer made it clear that Nikola Jokic needs no guidance, calling him the league’s best center with a championship to back it up.
When asked about Embiid, O’Neal did not hold back. “I try to be tough on Joel, but apparently he can’t take it,” he said. “So I’ll probably have to delete him from my program.”
The comments arrive at a complicated time for Embiid, who has faced both injuries and off-court challenges during the 2024–25 season. The Philadelphia 76ers center played in just 19 games before undergoing arthroscopic surgery on his left knee in April, ending his year prematurely.
Embiid averaged 23.8 points, 8.2 rebounds, and 4.5 assists in limited action. Despite returning briefly in February to post his eighth career triple-double, ongoing knee problems forced the team to shut him down for the remainder of the campaign.
Beyond injuries, the 2023 MVP drew headlines earlier in the season for a suspension stemming from a locker room altercation and for reported issues with punctuality raised in a team meeting. These developments added scrutiny to his leadership role in Philadelphia.
For Embiid, whose career averages include 27.7 points and 11 rebounds across nine seasons, questions remain about his long-term durability and ability to lead the 76ers on a deep playoff run. Philadelphia last reached the Eastern Conference Finals in 2001, well before his arrival.
