“OK, you don't recognize me; Imma make you recognize me” – Shaquille O’Neal supports LeBron James for his recent comments on Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, says it’s fine to not have relationships with players

NBA legend Shaquille O'Neal shared his thoughts on LeBron James' recent comments regarding Kareem Abdul-Jabbar. In a journey to break the scoring record that Abdul-Jabbar has set, James made it known to everyone that it's all business for him.

Earlier this month, the LA Lakers forward was asked about his relationship with Abdul-Jabbar. His answer wasn't really surprising to people who follow him religiously, but it came as a surprise to others. When asked about his relationship with the famed Lakers legend, James said:

"No thoughts. And no relationship."

People thought that James was being disrespectful to Abdul-Jabbar. But the two have been distant from one another and have not been seen in public interacting.

O'Neal, who was briefly a teammate of James and a Lakers legend, assured everyone that the two don't need to have a relationship. On "The Big Podcast with Shaq," he said he didn't have a decent relationship with Abdul-Jabbar during his playing days as well.

"Me and Kareem met three or four years ago," O'Neal said. "We are good now. To go on a record, my feelings were not hurt that I didn't have a relationship with Kareem.

"Kinda motivated me because I felt that, 'OK, you don't recognize me, Imma make you recognize me.' Didn't have a relationship with Wilt (Chamberlain) or Kareem, and it's fine. I understand."

In the past, Abdul-Jabbar has criticized LeBron James. There are a few accounts where he praised the young star, but so far, he's been critical of James' actions.

Specifically, he called the 18-time All-Star out after he used the "big balls" celebration in a game against the Indiana Pacers. On his YouTube channel, Kareem addressed James' immature celebration:

"It doesn't make sense. GOATs don't dance."

---

LeBron James' health will predict the Lakers' season

LA Lakers forward LeBron James

LeBron James and the LA Lakers aren't heavy favorites to win the 2023 NBA title. So far, only the Lakers organization believes in them.

It only makes sense that the Lakers aren't the favorites to win it all. They just had a terrible season, and it doesn't look like it's bound to change anytime soon. Los Angeles missed out on a chance to even finish as a 10th seed to participate in the play-in tournament.

James' health is in question here. Over the past few seasons, James has had injuries that have sidelined him for a number of games each season. The injuries aren't too serious, but his lack of presence on the court has put the team's success in jeopardy.

As he enters his 20th season, James is expected to do something big for the Lakers organization. His experience and leadership is what the team is counting on for success. But he needs to avoid injuries, otherwise they'll have a repeat of last season's outcome.