Shaquille O’Neal isn’t one to give today’s players too many compliments. As someone that was constantly challenged by the greats that came before him to do better, Shaq often gives pointers to today’s players on what they need to do to take the next step in their careers. But every once in a while, Shaq will give a player some love too, and the latest recipient of his praise is Trae Young.
Young is in an odd situation, with the Atlanta Hawks seemingly regressing following their run to the Eastern Conference Finals last season and him becoming quite underrated despite still performing at a very elite level. However, making the play-in was enough for Trae to then do his magic, as he powered his team to back-to-back wins over the Charlotte Hornets and the Cleveland Cavaliers to secure the 8th seed.
His performances led to O’Neal proclaiming on Inside the NBA that Trae Young is his second favorite player in the league.
“I like the way they play,” O’Neal started. “I don’t know how far they can go, but I just love the way they play. He’s my second favorite player because I like that he lives for these moments.”
Young ended the season averaging over 28 points and 9 assists a game, truly spectacular numbers, but the Hawks failing to get higher in the Eastern Conference standings cost him major consideration in terms of praise and honors during and after the regular season.
Things can turn around quickly in the NBA and playoff success is the best way to wash away any narratives that have built up during the regular season. However, with a first-round series against a really good Miami Heat team coming up, the Hawks will need to come together to make something happen. If Trae Young can continue to go off as he has, this could end up being another unexpectedly fun postseason for the team.
