Thunder vs Grizzlies Game 2 Injury Report: Will Shai Gilgeous-Alexander & Chet Holmgren Play Tonight?

Shaq vs The next gen

Back in September, Shaquille O’Neal made a bold statement about the future of big men, singling out Victor Wembanyama. But this time, it’s Chet Holmgren who’s getting some attention. While Shaq praised Wembanyama’s skill, he made it clear that he doesn’t think a player who relies on jump shots can truly dominate in the paint. With Holmgren, though, it’s a different story. The 7-foot rookie brings a unique skill set that could challenge even Shaq’s dominance in the paint.

Danny Green, a three-time NBA champion, recently pointed out on the Run it Back podcast that Holmgren’s versatility could give Shaq trouble. While Shaq dominated with brute force in his prime, Green believes Holmgren’s ability to stretch the floor and defend could force even the Diesel to adjust his game. Shaq fired back with his usual confidence, joking, “But how they gonna guard me? I’m not known for defense.” Last year, when a podcaster dubbed Holmgren “phenomenal,” Shaq cautioned against lofty labels for players without consistent multi‑year dominance.

Even Pat Beverly had Sha’s back. He claimed Green was “on that Devil lettuce” and reaffirmed that Shaq would “destroy both of them,” underscoring the game’s vibrant online debate. Wembanyama and Holmgren epitomize the modern “unicorn” big-stretch-five rim protectors whose skill sets transcend traditional roles. Whether Shaq’s dominance would carry over unchanged, this clash spotlights how the NBA’s “big‑man alliance” must evolve—or be outpaced by fresh prototypes

It looks like Shaq’s trying to remind everyone why he’s still the most dominant center to ever play. But is it that the players need to prove themselves? Or is it Shaq who needs to get with the times?