Shaq’s Bold Suggestion: LeBron James Should Have Joined Curry and Durant in Golden State
LeBron James’ career achievements have often sparked heated debates about his standing among the all-time NBA greats, particularly in comparison to Michael Jordan. Jordan’s immaculate 6-0 record in NBA Finals has frequently been contrasted with James’ 4-6 Finals record. Many argue that if James had emerged victorious in every Finals appearance, the “Greatest of All Time” conversation might heavily favor him.
Yet, LeBron’s legacy is unique, shaped not only by his accolades but also by the formidable opponents he faced on the biggest stage. Recognizing this, NBA legend Shaquille O’Neal once made a startling suggestion: that James should take what might have been the easiest route to securing more championships—joining forces with Stephen Curry, Kevin Durant, and the Golden State Warriors.
The Context Behind Shaq’s Proposal
Between 2015 and 2018, LeBron James and the Cleveland Cavaliers faced the Golden State Warriors in four consecutive NBA Finals, a rivalry that defined an era. While James famously led Cleveland to a historic comeback from a 3-1 deficit to win the 2016 championship, the Warriors triumphed in the other three matchups, aided by the addition of Durant in 2017.
By the summer of 2018, LeBron’s future in Cleveland was in question. With his contract expiring and the Cavaliers’ roster depleted, speculation mounted about his next move. Some analysts anticipated a return to the Miami Heat, where he had won two championships. Others envisioned him joining a rising team like the Philadelphia 76ers.
However, Shaquille O’Neal shocked the basketball world with an unconventional idea: LeBron should join the Warriors—the very team that had denied him three championships.
“LeBron’s getting older,” Shaq remarked. “He’s got four rings. Why not go get three more?”
A Controversial Suggestion
At first glance, Shaq’s advice seemed logical. Joining the Warriors, a dynasty already brimming with talent, could have all but guaranteed James additional titles. However, the suggestion also raised ethical questions. Would the fiercely competitive LeBron sacrifice his reputation and legacy by joining the team that had been his greatest adversary?
Critics argued that such a move would tarnish LeBron’s legacy, casting doubt on the authenticity of his potential future championships. The NBA world, already polarized by Durant’s decision to join the Warriors in 2016, would have likely reacted with even greater disdain if LeBron followed suit.
LeBron’s 2018 Playoff Heroics
Before leaving Cleveland, LeBron delivered one of the most remarkable individual performances in NBA postseason history. In the first round, he drained a game-winning buzzer-beater against the Indiana Pacers in Game 5. In the second round, he dismantled the top-seeded Toronto Raptors so thoroughly that fans dubbed the team “LeBronto.” Despite his Herculean efforts, the Cavaliers’ supporting cast was no match for Golden State in the Finals, leading to another disappointing series loss.
After weighing his options, LeBron chose a different path. Instead of joining the Warriors, he signed with the Los Angeles Lakers, a franchise with a storied history but mired in mediocrity at the time.
The Los Angeles Chapter
LeBron’s move to Los Angeles signaled the beginning of a new phase in his career. His first season with the Lakers was rocky, as injuries and a lackluster roster kept the team out of playoff contention. However, the arrival of Anthony Davis in 2019 transformed the Lakers into title contenders.
In 2020, LeBron led the Lakers to a championship inside the NBA’s Orlando bubble, claiming his fourth ring. While it wasn’t the three consecutive titles Shaq envisioned, it was a vindication of LeBron’s decision to forge his own path rather than take the easy route.
Legacy Over Convenience
Shaquille O’Neal’s suggestion, though controversial, underscored the challenges LeBron faced in solidifying his legacy. By resisting the temptation to join the Warriors, LeBron chose the harder road, one that demanded resilience and perseverance. His journey to success with the Lakers reinforced his reputation as a player who values competition and the authenticity of his achievements.
While the hypothetical of LeBron teaming up with Curry and Durant will always remain a fascinating “what if,” his decision to carve his own path has only added depth to his extraordinary career, solidifying his place among the NBA’s all-time greats.
