Shaquille O’Neal argues Celtics had ‘easiest run ever’

Posted on by knews.uk


Celtics

“Can you back it up?”

Shaquille O’Neal listens to announcers as his Orlando Magic jersey number is retired. Photo Kevin Kolczynski/AP

The Celtics put together one of the most dominant playoff runs in NBA history, posting a 16-3 record en route to their first title since 2008.

Former Celtic and NBA legend Shaquille O’Neal — who picked the Dallas Mavericks to beat the Celtics in five games in the Finals — argued Boston’s competition wasn’t too stiff.

“We all know Boston had the easiest run ever to that championship,” O’Neal said while speaking on “The OGs Show” with Udonis Haslem and Mike Miller.

Haslem agreed, and O’Neal said it’s up to the Celtics to prove themselves this season.

“Okay, you had an easy run,” O’Neal said. “It doesn’t matter. You won it. Can you back it up?”

O’Neal then wondered if the 76ers, Bucks, Magic or Heat would have anything to say about the Celtics repeating.

While there may be some exaggeration involved, the Heat (Jimmy Butler), Cavaliers (Donovan Mitchell) and Pacers (Tyrese Haliburton) were all shorthanded for at least part of each series.

Boston then faced a healthy Mavericks team with Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving and won in five.

The Celtics are currently seen as favorites (+300) in 2025, according to FanDuel. They are looking to become the first team since the Warriors in 2017 and 2018 to repeat.

Boston opens camp on Friday, September 27.