With
LeBron James sidelined for the clash against the Milwaukee Bucks, the
Los Angeles Lakers were expected to lose and have their three-game win streak snapped. However, as the LA side continues to fight for a spot in the postseason, Anthony Davis rose to the occasion and elevated his performance. Recording a 34-point, 23-rebound double-double, AD eventually led the Purple & Gold to a thriller double overtime 128-124 win. Shaquille O’Neal was among the many enthusiasts and analysts to laud Davis for the same. During the TNT Tuesday postgame show, Shaquille O’Neal expressed his admiration for Anthony Davis and also revealed a story from the time when the latter’s parents requested him to continue criticizing their son. Further, Shaq disclosed that he had recognized AD’s talents during his stint with the New Orleans side. The TNT analyst also lauded the Lakers big man for keeping his word and performing exceptionally well amidst their fight to clinch a playoff spot. While AD was showered with praise from Shaq, the latter decided to not include the nine-time All-Star in the prestigious “The Big Alliance” . Just a few hours before the compliments, the Hall-Of-Famer reasoned that the former Kentucky Wildcat wasn’t eligible for the elite group as he was a forward and not a center. “AD is not a big man, he’s a power forward. Don’t do that,” Shaq told Candace Parker. Whether or not Davis is part of this list, he has had a successful career – a championship, four All-NBA selections, four All-Defensive selections, three block titles. This season, Davis has been quite productive on both ends of the floor, averaging 24.7 points, 12.6 rebounds, 3.6 assists, and 2.2 blocks per game, per NBA.com .