SUMMER LEAGUE: Gm 5 84-95 loss, JH 15 pts, 3 ast, 3 rbd, 7 TO

[Mavsfan12]

Giannis is not just survivable on defense. He is one of the best. Giannis also handles the ball like a guard. Shaq could do neither.  At least that iteration of Shaq. However that’s why I said it’s difficult to engage in hypotheticals because the Shaq growing up later would probably be a totally different type of player. 

It was not just Shaq. Even Barkley, Aguire, or a PG like Mark Jackson used to back folks down methodically and the NBA put a stop to all that. They didn’t want the game going in that direction.  It was a great move. Look at all the point forwards with size now.  My other fav sport is tennis. Garfia might be the closest to a stud on the horizon but it is not like the ATP has many next gen stars that folks are clamoring to watch. Meanwhile the NBA looks set for another 10-12 years easily and never seem to run out of must watch type of talent.

 
BTW for someone who wrote that Hakeem would not cut it now as opposed to Shaq, Hakeem is one of those who would absolutely dominate. He had the foot speed on defense, great offensive footwork, and a terrific fadeaway.  He was a skilled player who could kill you with skill or power, and skill is king now.

I think that Hakeem is actually the prototype.  That's why I brought him up in my hypothetical.  He would absolutely feast in today's game as he faced guys that have no business being in the post on defense.  I think he would be able to be more efficient than he was with a ton more point blank shots/dunks.