Shaquille O’Neal, the larger-than-life personality who took the NBA by storm, has always been a dominant force, both on and off the court. As an NBA legend, his insights into the modern game carry immense weight. When it comes to differentiating between today’s top players, Shaq doesn’t shy away from sharing his thoughts.
In a recent interview, Shaq highlighted a major difference between two rising stars, Joel Embiid and Nikola Jokic. With an air of conviction, he stated his favorite among the two, and for some, it came as no surprise.
Shaquille O’Neal talks on difference between Joel Embiid and Nikola Jokic
Shaquille O’Neal, the iconic NBA Hall of Famer, recently weighed in on the ongoing debate about who is the better player between Philadelphia 76ers’ Joel Embiid and Denver Nuggets’ Nikola Jokic.
In a recent interview on “The Big Podcast with Shaq,”Hall of Famer Shaquille O’Neal discussed the stark contrast between Joel and Jokic. While acknowledging that both players are exceptional, O’Neal emphasized Jokic’s championship win, which gives him an edge in the big-man battle.
Shaq says he’ll give Joel Embiid respect once he shows up in the playoffs
— NBACentral (@TheDunkCentral) January 11, 2024
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Shaquille O’Neal channeled his own experience with Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, another icon of the game, to challenge Embiid. He recalled how Abdul-Jabbar’s comments about his lack of championships motivated him.
O’Neal stated, “That’s my message to Mr. Embiid. We know what you can do, but can you do it at the big dance? Can you get the phone number at the big dance and can you take it home and close the deal?”
While Shaquille O’Neal’s brutally honest perspective has shed light on the ongoing debate of individual brilliance versus championship success in determining the best big man in the league, the topic is still open for discussion. Only time will tell who will get the edge.
Joel Embiid and Nikola Jokic stats comparison this season
Joel Embiid and Nikola Jokic have undeniably been two of the most dominant centers in the NBA during the 2023-24 season. Let’s compare their stats to see how they stack up against each other.
In terms of scoring, Embiid has been an absolute force, leading the league with an impressive 34.6 points per game. Jokic, on the other hand, has still been a prolific scorer, averaging 25.5 points per game and ranking 15th in the league.
When it comes to rebounding, both players have been exceptional. Embiid has been a force on the boards, averaging 11.8 rebounds per game, placing him 5th in the league. Jokic is not far behind, averaging 11.7 rebounds, ranking 4th overall.
In terms of playmaking, Nikola Jokic, for the Denver Nuggets, has displayed his exceptional passing ability, averaging 9.3 assists per game, ranking 3rd in the league. Embiid has also shown his playmaking skills, averaging 6.0 assists per game, putting him at the 20th spot.
When it comes to shooting efficiency, both players have been efficient from the field. Jokic has a field goal percentage of 57.5%, ranking 16th in the league. Embiid has a slightly lower field goal percentage of 53.5%, placing him at the 25th spot.
While both of their team sits 3rd in their respective conferences, we could have a meet-up between these two absolute juggernauts. And hope may best man wins the argument and success that lies ahead.
