Shaquille O’Neal backs Lakers superstar LeBron James amid criticism over newly added play-in tournament: “I don’t ever want to see this play-in tournament again after this year”

Shaquille O’Neal showcases his displeasure towards the newly added play-in tournament, agreeing with Lakers superstar LeBron James.

We saw a lot of changes over the last season, due to the gruesome global pandemic. The 2019-2020 season was concluded in a Bubble at the Walt Disney World Resort. This campaign, too, has witnessed a shortened 72-game season, empty stands, a single All-Star day making it one of the most unique NBA seasons ever.

One of the new additions that the league added this season was the controversial play-in tournament. With the incorporation of this tournament, teams till the 10th seed potentially have a shot of making the postseason.

As the regular season approaches an end, many players and coaches give their honest take on this additional tournament included by the league.

While stars like Stephen Curry like the opportunities provided by this play-in tournament, players like LeBron James, Luka Doncic and Draymond Green are completely against the same idea. Former Lakers legend Shaquille O’Neal too, gave his opinions on this disputed topic, agreeing with the King.

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“I don’t ever want to see this tournament ever again”: Shaquille O’Neal

LeBron James outright rejected the new concept, claiming that whoever came with up this idea had to be ‘fired’. Hall-Of-Famer Shaq revealed how he actually likes the idea for this year, however, doesn’t want to see the play-in tournament be a permanent addition. Agreeing with LBJ, the former 4-time champ explained:

“These two years, I am okay with it. But if you are trying to change the rules and say ‘forever’, (then) I am in agreement with LeBron James. ”

“Because you know last year with the Bubble, shortened games and this year starting the season late and ending late – I am in for the Play-in tournament. But after this, I don’t ever want to see it again.”

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While this tournament is a great opportunity for the 9th and 10th seed teams to make the playoffs, it is doesn’t make sense for the 7th and 8th seed teams.

Sadly, a couple of bad games towards the end of the season could potentially punish the playoffs teams. However, it does make the regular season more competitive than ever.