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Shaquille O’Neal defends LeBron James from ‘ring chasing’ allegations amid Adam Silver pressure

Photo by Roy Rochlin/Getty Images for Fanatics
Photo by Roy Rochlin/Getty Images for Fanatics
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LeBron James’ delayed free agency decision is majorly impacting the NBA’s scheduling.

In fact, NBA Commissioner Adam Silver recently admitted that the league isn’t releasing the schedule only because LeBron James hasn’t announced his next destination.

On the other hand, many have accused James of ring chasing and called out for taking so much time to reveal where he’ll play in the upcoming NBA season.

Shaquille O'Neal aka Dj Diesel performs at Shaq's Fun House at Cow Palace Arena & Event Center.
Photo by Miikka Skaffari/Getty Images

Shaquille O’Neal understands LeBron James’ reasoning behind delay

In a recent interview with Sports Illustrated, Los Angeles Lakers legend Shaquille O’Neal defended James and explained why the 41-year-old is taking so much time to reach a decision in this free agency.

“It is [fair]. The ending of his career, I’m sure he’s gonna pick wisely. I’m sure he wants to go somewhere where he has a really good chance of winning. A lot of people call it ring chasing; it’s not ring chasing, it’s defining your legacy.

“If you can go somewhere and get one, it would be good. I have four, but in my mind I should have seven, that haunts me all the time,” O’Neal said.

He added, “More power to LeBron if he can get with a team and try to win one more ring. At this point in time, we talk about LeBron’s legacy; right now, we’re talking about extra credit.”

Right now, the Cleveland Cavaliers, Miami Heat, and Golden State Warriors are among the favorites to sign James. All three teams have a legitimate shot at becoming NBA title contenders if they can convince LBJ to join.