Shaq Likes Knicks After Towns Deal

January 22, 2025

Shaq is really liking what he sees with the “new” New York Knicks, now that they’ve added the KAT. 

Those Knicks have emerged as one of the NBA’s most compelling stories midway through the 2024-25 season. With a 29-16 record following their gritty 99-95 victory over the Brooklyn Nets this week (as of this posting date), the Knicks currently sit as the third seed in the Eastern Conference. Led by new star Karl-Anthony Towns, they’re making serious noise—but not everyone is sold on their championship potential.

Hall of Famer Shaquille O’Neal didn’t hold back when asked about the Knicks on the NBA on TNT postgame show. “A lot of people think I don’t like the Knicks. Not the truth. The truth is I don’t get hype over just winning games. I get hype over winning championships,” Shaq explained. “You asked the question—do I think they can win a championship? I think the answer is no… I don’t think they have enough.”

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Knicks fans may not love Shaq’s skepticism, especially considering the team’s recent success. However, O’Neal’s comments reflect his high standard for championship-caliber teams. The Knicks’ playoff run last season ended in a heartbreaking seven-game loss to the Indiana Pacers in the second round, leaving fans hungry for a deeper push this year.

Let’s call it the KAT Effect: Powering the Knicks’ resurgence is Karl-Anthony Towns, acquired in a blockbuster offseason trade with the Minnesota Timberwolves. Towns has been nothing short of sensational, averaging 25 points, 14 rebounds, and 3 assists per game while shooting an impressive 54/44/84 from the field. His presence has transformed the Knicks into legitimate contenders, earning praise even from Shaq, who is famously critical of modern big men.

Again, from the TNT halftime show: “This year, I have nothing bad to say about him. Love the way he’s playing the game. He’s playing like a true big man.”

O’Neal’s approval is a big deal. As a dominant center himself, Shaq has often critiqued today’s big men for shying away from physical play. 

Seems that Towns’ performance has won him over, with Shaq adding, “I’m happy for KAT. I was a little worried about him going to New York, but he’s stepping up… he’s playing well.”

Towns’ resurgence in New York is a story of finding the right system. After years of adapting to the Timberwolves’ roster changes, including sharing the floor with Rudy Gobert, Towns is thriving back at his natural center position. His ability to score from all three levels is now complemented by a more physical presence in the paint.

Tuesday’s win against the Nets highlighted Towns’ impact. He posted a monster stat line: 25 points, 16 rebounds, six assists, three steals, and two blocks in 39 minutes. His dominance has energized Madison Square Garden and provided the Knicks with a reliable anchor alongside Jalen Brunson and Mikal Bridges.

While Shaq remains skeptical about the Knicks’ championship aspirations, the pieces are starting to fall into place. Towns’ stellar play has silenced doubters, and the Knicks are proving they can compete with the best in the East.

Shaq’s comments may sting, but his praise for Towns is a testament to how far the All-Star has come. The real question now: Can Towns and the Knicks silence their critics with a deep playoff run?

For now, one thing is clear—the bright lights of New York have sparked a new era for the Knicks, and Karl-Anthony Towns is shining as their centerpiece. Only time will tell if it’s enough to win the ultimate prize, but the ride promises to be unforgettable.


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