The Boston Celtics are still celebrating their first championship in 16 years. Head coach Joe Mazzulla’s team beat the Dallas Mavericks in five games a month ago, and many are already thinking about the two-time championship. However, Shaquille O’Neal considered that they are closer to receiving a reality check than achieving a second title.
The Celtics have played 15 of the last 16 playoffs, they have played three championship series, and with the return of Jaylen Brown and Jayson Tatum, they seem to be consolidating a new dynasty that would be on par with the one led by Larry Bird in the 90s.
The front office, led by general manager Brad Stevens, did everything possible to secure Tatum’s return with a $314 million contract. In addition, they assured the core of his team for at least one more year, seeking to repeat the championship in 2025.
However, all these efforts could have been in vain. According to O’Neal, the Celtics will have a much more difficult path next season, and their chances of a championship are much further away this time.
Shaq’s opinion
In the most recent episode of “The Big Podcast with Shaq,” the former Los Angeles Lakers center was categorical when saying, “No [Boston isn’t poised to repeat], because even though they have the championship… Boston had it easy.”
O’Neal was referring to the injuries that plagued Boston’s top rivals on their way to the championship. However, the player-turned-analyst explained, “It’s not their fault, I don’t care, they won… Their road was too easy. So, when their road stiffens up, and they don’t win, then that statement will be verified.”
He assured that the only way the team can receive the recognition it deserves is by winning on equal terms. “If they win next year, with all these teams healthy, got to give them their respect.”
In the end, Shaq himself downplayed his warnings, recalling the bad attitude for which sports analysts are famous, “You know how us haters and US commentators do. ‘Okay, you got one, win two!'”
The Celtics in free agency
For now, the front office has its work cut out, with seven players hitting free agency, including second-team players Sam Hauser and Luke Kornet.
Changes to the Collective Bargaining Agreement will bring big changes to free agency. However, Boston could still land some talent to maintain their roster depth. Among his options are Seth Curry of the Charlotte Hornets and Gordon Hayward, a former Celtic currently with the Oklahoma City Thunder.
The next NBA season still seems far away. However, the Celtics must continue working if they want to prevent Shaq’s ominous predictions from coming true.
