Shaquille O’Neal names the only players who could have played in his era: “I think about that all the time”

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O’Neal weighs in on the ongoing debate of which modern NBA players could survive the physicality of past eras.

The debate about which of the modern NBA superstars could thrive and translate their skill sets to previous eras has been a highly discussed topic for years now. And in that discussion, few voices carry more weight than Shaquille O’Neal’s.

As one of the most dominant players of all time, who thrived in one of the Association’s most physical periods, Shaq knows what it takes to come out on top in a rougher type of environment. Recently, the Hall of Fame center shared his thoughts about a select few of today’s players who could seamlessly compete in the 1990s and early 2000s.

“I think about it all the time. Ant Edwards. LeBron of course, well he did play in that era, KD… That’s about it,” Shaq said before adding the Thompson twins, Amen and Ausar, to that list.

“Actually, the (Thompson brothers) boys, they got heart, they definitely could have played in that era,” he quipped.

The usual suspects top the list

The first couple of names come as zero surprise. LeBron James is one of those guys whose generational talent would fit in any given time period. Whether it’s his physical strength, playing for his teammates, or even mid-range shooting, Bron could do it all. And considering he came into the league in 2003, “The King” had the chance to experience some of that style early in his Hall of Fame career.

Next on the list is Kevin Durant. A super-talented 6’11” forward with the soft touch and skills of a guard, KD would be a nightmare matchup for all the slower big men who ruled the painted area back in the past. Sure, Durant’s build isn’t particularly physical, but make no mistake—his unique set of skills would seamlessly transition to previous periods of the game.

Although he doesn’t yet have a Hall of Fame-worthy career like his predecessors, Anthony Edwards is on a great path to finishing as one of the best superstars of his generation. “Ant-Man” is already a fan favorite thanks to his unapologetic attitude and charisma, which he backs up by giving his all on the court every single night. Edwards is one of those who loves to compete, and that’s exactly why he earned his spot on O’Neal’s exclusive list.

The Thompson Twins

These three superstars would more or less be found on any list of players who transcend their era; however, the next two would come as a bit of a surprise. “The Big Diesel” pointed to super-talented Thompson twins—Amen and Ausar—who are slowly but surely turning heads around the Association.

Drafted with the fourth and fifth pick, respectively, the two hyper-athletic brothers had a somewhat unconventional path to the league, both playing in the Overtime Elite league. However, their transition to the big boys league has been nothing short of impressive.

Amen is thriving in a young and potent Houston Rockets squad and has shown signs of the two-way potential he possesses. Currently averaging 13.9 points, 8.2 rebounds, and 2.7 combined steals and blocks, the 6’7″ Rockets guard really has a bright future ahead of him. The same can be said for his brother Ausar, who plays for the Detroit Pistons.

Although his production is slightly lower than his brother’s, both of them truly embody the essence of playing hard on both sides of the floor. O’Neal recognized this quality in the twins and, thanks to their all-around game and the heart they bring every single night, included them in this select group.

LeBron was in awe

This is definitely not the first time that one of the legends showered praise on the twins, who are slowly but surely putting the Association on notice. Before they found themselves on Shaq’s list, Amen and Ausar received well-deserved flowers from none other than “The King” himself, who was in awe of the brothers’ otherworldly athleticism.

“Cade Cunningham said it best, ‘They different,'” Bron exclaimed. “They ain’t like the rest of us. I’ve been able to go against some dudes in my career, and those two guys, man, they’re just pure athleticism. They love the game, and you love to see that.”

This type of praise from certified legends like Bron and Shaq only adds fuel to the fire for the Thompson twins. When all-time greats acknowledge your talents, it sets the bar even higher and proves you are doing something right. Amen and Ausar have already shown glimpses of the potential they undoubtedly possess, and now the real challenge lies in maintaining steady growth and solidifying themselves in a league where nothing is guaranteed.

Players like Durant and LeBron have already cemented their place in history, and “Ant-Man” is on a great pace to do so, but for the “Twins,” this is only the beginning. However, if they continue what they have been doing and play with their hearts every single game, there is a bright future ahead of them.