By: Debadrita Ghosh Image credit: NBA and Twitter.
Former Los Angeles Lakers legend Shaquille O'Neal had some harsh words for the Lakers' acquisition of forward Rui Hachimura through a trade with the Washington Wizards.
On the recent episode of ‘The Big Podcast with Shaq’, Shaq stated that he is unaware of Hachimura's identity. Shaq was harsh on Hachimura who was selected in the first round of the 2019 NBA Draft.
Hachimura is a reliable player who could probably aid the Lakers in their quest for a playoff position this year. Hachimura played for the Wizards in 30 games this season, averaging 13 points, 4.3 rebounds, and 1.2 assists.
On Wednesday night, he played 22 minutes off the bench in his Lakers debut against the San Antonio Spurs, scoring 12 points on 4-of-7 field shooting. In the game, he added six further rebounds.
Shaq said about Hachimura: “I ain’t never heard of him…... I mean, you know we gave up Kendrick Nunn – he wasn’t really doing nothing, but listen – I’m going to get on my Spice [Adams] thing right now….”
Shaq continued: “My Lakers, we all about winning them championships.If it ain’t no piece that gon’ win a championship, I don’t want to see it. I don’t even know who that is.”
In the process, O'Neal criticised Lakers general manager Rob Pelinka, stating the team ought to have acquired Bradley Beal through trade.
Shaq said: “It should have said Bradley Beal…. If you want to impress me. Come on, Rob. That’s all I gotta say. I don’t even know who the f— that is.”
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