Shaquille O’Neal Sparks Controversy: Why P.J. Washington Would Outshine Larry Bird in Today’s Game
In the world of basketball, few opinions hold as much weight as those of Shaquille O’Neal. The Hall of Famer and four-time NBA champion has never been shy about sharing his thoughts on the game, whether on the court or in the studio. Recently, Shaq made waves with a bold claim that has stirred up debate among basketball fans: P.J. Washington, the young Charlotte Hornets forward, would be better than Larry Bird if he played in today’s NBA.
Shaq’s Argument: A Changing Game
At the heart of Shaq’s argument is the idea that the game of basketball has evolved dramatically since Larry Bird’s era. Bird, a three-time NBA champion and one of the most celebrated players of the 1980s, was known for his incredible shooting, 
“Larry was great, no doubt,” Shaq said during a recent discussion on “Inside the NBA.” “But the game has changed. The way it’s played today, with the speed, the three-point shooting, the athleticism, I think P.J. Washington would thrive in a way Larry couldn’t.”
The Physical and Athletic Edge
One of the main points Shaq emphasized was the athleticism of today’s players compared to those of Bird’s era. At 6’7” and 230 pounds, P.J. Washington is a versatile forward with the ability to guard multiple positions, shoot from deep, and finish strong at the rim. Shaq believes that Washington’s physical attributes and athleticism would allow him to dominate in ways that Bird, who was known more for his skill and intelligence than raw athletic ability, could not.
“P.J. has the physical tools that are necessary in today’s NBA,” Shaq explained.
“He’s quicker, stronger, and more explosive. The game is faster now, and you need guys who can keep up with that speed and still be effective. Larry was a master of his time, but in this era, P.J. has the tools to be even better.”
Three-Point Revolution and Versatility
Shaq also pointed to the evolution of the three-point shot as a crucial factor. In Bird’s time, the three-point line was still relatively new, and while Bird was an excellent shooter, the volume and emphasis on three-point shooting in today’s game is vastly different. Washington, who has steadily improved his three-point shooting throughout his career, benefits from playing in an era where spacing and shooting are paramount.
“The way teams play now, spreading the floor, shooting threes, that wasn’t how the game was played in the 80s,” Shaq said. “P.J. has adapted to that style, and in a way, he’s a product of the modern game. If Larry played today, he’d have to adjust, and I’m not sure he’d be as dominant as he was back then.”
A Provocative Take
Shaq’s comparison is certainly a provocative one, and it has sparked plenty of debate among basketball enthusiasts. Larry Bird is often regarded as one of the greatest players of all time, and any suggestion that a current player could surpass him, especially one who has not yet reached stardom, is bound to raise eyebrows.
However, Shaq’s argument highlights the broader conversation about how the game has changed over the years. The differences in play style, athleticism, and skillsets required in different eras make comparisons like these challenging but also fascinating.
The Bigger Picture
While it’s unlikely that Shaq’s take will change the consensus view of Larry Bird’s greatness, it does underscore the importance of context when evaluating players from different eras. P.J. Washington, who is still developing as a player, may never reach the heights of Bird’s career, but Shaq’s argument is a reminder that the NBA is constantly evolving, and what it takes to succeed in one era may differ significantly from another.
In the end, Shaq’s comments are as much about the evolution of the game as they are about the players themselves. Whether or not fans agree with his assessment, it’s clear that the debate over the greatest players in basketball history is far from settled—and that’s just the way Shaq likes it.
