The Boston Celtics have secured the No. 1 seed in the Eastern Conference and will enjoy homecourt advantage throughout the playoffs. However, former NBA superstar Shaquille O’Neal is skeptical about their ability to capitalize on these advantages.
“Overrated? Boston,” O’Neal commented on “The Big Podcast.”
O’Neal, who has a wealth of experience in the NBA, argued that true success in the league is defined by championships, not just regular season records.
NBA NEWS & RUMORS: Shaquille O’Neal, Boston Celtics Updates
“You’ve gotta show me,” O’Neal stated. “I’ve been around this league a long time, and seen a lot of guys that have had a great regular season and haven’t won championships.”
He believes that for a team to truly excel, they need to consistently perform at an elevated level throughout the playoffs.
“Consistency and dominant consistency. You’ve gotta do more. Every game, you’ve gotta go to another level,” O’Neal explained.
NBA NEWS & RUMORS: Shaquille O’Neal, Boston Celtics Updates
While the Celtics have been a strong contender in the NBA for the past few years, capturing numerous playoff victories with stars like Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown, their results have not fully met expectations.
Since drafting Tatum and Brown, the Celtics have reached the NBA Finals only once since 2010, illustrating the kind of playoff shortfall O’Neal critiques.
NBA NEWS & RUMORS: Shaquille O’Neal, Boston Celtics Updates
Interestingly, O’Neal’s final NBA season was with the Celtics during the 2010-11 season, adding a personal note to his critique of the team’s recent performances.
