The Big Podcast with Shaq
Shaquille O’Neal did not hold back when criticizing Joel Embiid, directly accusing the Philadelphia 76ers star of being “soft” for opting not to play in consecutive games.
Embiid did not participate in the Sixers’ season opener against the Bucks on Thursday and he has been ruled out for the subsequent two games, having already missed the preseason due to what the team referred to as managing a left knee injury.
The 2023 NBA MVP mentioned to a journalist earlier this season that he might refrain from playing in back-to-back games throughout his career … a statement that left Shaq, one of the greatest centers in NBA history, feeling quite frustrated.
“You have to aspire to be that guy,” O’Neal expressed on the “Big Pod With Shaq.” “And based on his recent comments, I don’t believe Joel wishes to be that guy.”
“S. O. F. T.!”
Joel Embiid is an outstanding player, but the way he flops and flails against opponents who weigh over 50 pounds less than him is a common sight.
If you’re going to act like this, don’t complain about the other team “begging for fouls” during your postgame interview.
— Erik Slater (@erikslater_) April 18, 2023
@erikslater_
O’Neal, a four-time NBA champion and 15-time All-Star, highlighted that he aimed to dominate as the top center in every match from 1992 to 2011 … and he believes Embiid, at age 30, should have no excuse for sitting out.
“You aren’t facing double teams or triple teams,” Shaq remarked. “All you’re doing is pick and pop. Why are you fatigued?!”
Shaq further emphasized that Embiid possesses the capability to thrive … as he showcased last season by establishing a franchise record with 70 points in a single game.
Ultimately, O’Neal believes that Embiid — who was only able to play 39 games last season — lacks the motivation to fully engage.
“If you’re capable of scoring 70 points when you’re upset, you could easily average 40,” Shaq declared.
The NBA is currently probing whether Embiid’s absences breach player participation policies … which were instituted to prevent teams from resting healthy players.
Embiid has yet to make a comment … but it’s likely he won’t appreciate Shaq’s perspective.