Shaquille O’Neal Names 1 Man Who Can Actually Make Lebron James and Russell Westbrook Co-exist: “He Made It a Very Sexy Brand to Watch”

Shaquille ‘O Neal, the legendary Lakers center, has always been close to the team. Ever since his retirement, Shaq doesn’t shy away from giving his comments on the Lakers. This time he has put in his word regarding the latest Lakers news.

In a recent interview with Reuters, Shaq discussed the Lakers coaching vacancy and threw in a recommendation. “Mark Jackson helped build Golden State before Steve Kerr took it to the next level,” he said. “He made it a very sexy brand to watch, so I’m sure he can do that with LeBron and Russ.” Mark Jackson was the Golden State Warriors coach before Steve Kerr took over. He is credited with building the team ethos and structure, which then Steve took further.

Lakers 2021-22 season recap

A lot was expected from the Los Angeles Lakers coming into the 2021-22 NBA season. They had the second best pre season odd for the championship. After the Westbrook trade to complete their “Big 3” they were expected to come out of the western conference. With additions of Carmelo Anthony and Dwight Howard, they had the tag of an “old team” attached to them. But still there were hopes of a season where they could contend again.

Mar 19, 2022; Washington, District of Columbia, USA; Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (6) celebrates with guard Malik Monk (11) and guard Austin Reaves (15) drug the first half against the Washington Wizards at Capital One Arena. Mandatory Credit: Tommy Gilligan-USA TODAY Sports

But a season which was marred by injury to every important player except Westbrook, the team could never gel. They had continuity issues and could just never find their rhythm together. Eventually they didn’t even qualify for the play-in tournament and the roster was in need of a major overhaul for next season. But this is easier said than done with limited flexibility.

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An offseason to ponder

It will be an important offseason for the Lakers, as they would look to re-tool the roster to contend again. With LeBron James turning 38 next season, they have a limited window of contention in front of them. Rumours of a Westbrook trade have been going on but there is nothing concrete yet. Anthony Davis also has to get healthy and look to get back to his best too.

Mar 18, 2022; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (6) drives to the basket over Toronto Raptors forward Scottie Barnes (4) and Toronto Raptors forward Thaddeus Young (21) during the fourth quarter at Scotiabank Arena. Mandatory Credit: Nick Turchiaro-USA TODAY Sports

It will be a fascinating off-season for the Lakers, whose ripple effects the organization may feel for years to come.

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