"In 2 to 3 years, he will be the best player in the world" - Shaquille O'Neal gives props to Ja Morant for his All-Star performance this season
Ja Morant has drawn praise from Shaquille O'Neal for his incredible level of play this season. The Hall of Famer believes the Memphis Grizzlies point guard will be the best player in the league in a few seasons.
Speaking on "Inside the NBA," O'Neal said:
"I love Ja Morant. I want to give him props. He's the new age, the new day, Allen Iverson. He's not the best player in the world now. I'm not saying that disrespectfully, but in two to three years, he will be the best player in the world.
"He lets veterans know, he's coming. He plays with reckless abandonment, loves to talk trash, doesn't care. He can shoot the three, loves to put on a show for the fans."
It is no surprise to see Ja Morant receive praise from Shaquille O'Neal, as he has taken his game to another level this season.
In 12 games prior to Tuesday's game against the New Orleans Pelicans, Morant averaged 28.8 points, 6.0 rebounds and 7.0 assists, all career-highs. Additionally, he is shot 48.0%, including 41.0% from 3-point range and 78.8% from the free-throw line. The latter two are also career-highs.
The Memphis Grizzlies are currently 9-6, however, they have lost both games that Morant did not play.
Watch Shaquille O'Neal's full comments below:
"He's not the best player in the world now. I'm not saying that disrespectfully, but in 2-to-3 years, he will be the best player in the world."
Shaq on Ja Morant
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Can Ja Morant become the NBA's best player in two to three years?
Ja Morant is just 23 years old, however, he has already established himself as a star in the NBA. While he is performing at an All-NBA level, it is likely that he is yet to reach his prime.
While Morant will continue to grow his game, as he has this season, it is hard to envision him establishing himself as the NBA's best player over the next two to three years, as Shaquille O'Neal predicted. This is not a knock on Morant's talent, however, but simply an acknowledgement of the talent around the league.
Stars such as LeBron James, Kevin Durant, and Steph Curry could likely take a step back over the next three years. However, Giannis Antetokounmpo will likely continue to improve as he is just 27 years old. Antetokounmpo has already established himself among the NBA's premier talents.
The Milwaukee Bucks star was named to NBA's 75th Anniversary Team and has continued to improve. Morant's ascension could place him in the top five NBA players, however, he is unlikely to overtake Antetokounmpo as the NBA's top talent.
Watch Ja Morant's highlights below: