The Shaquille O’Neal-Kobe Bryant duo of the late 1990s and early 2000s was one of the greatest the NBA has ever seen.
Together, the tandem took the Los Angeles Lakers to the NBA Finals four times in a five-year span while delivering three straight world championships.
When James Harden was traded to the Philadelphia 76ers a few months ago to team up with MVP candidate Joel Embiid, a few misguided souls thought the Sixers had just assembled the equivalent of another O’Neal-Bryant duo.
But it didn’t exactly pan out, as they exited the second round of the playoffs in meek fashion.
O’Neal reminded everyone that the real thing cannot be beaten.
Via Lakers Daily:
“Apparently, O’Neal is not a fan of the comparison. He took to Instagram to state that there is only one ‘superduo.'”
Embiid played beneath his standards in the Eastern Conference semifinals when Harden struggled all season long with his shooting efficiency.
Some are now wondering if Harden will even be on the Sixers’ roster this fall.
Despite their personal issues, the sweet memories of the O’Neal-Bryant combo will live on forever.