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Shaquille O’Neal assesses Lakers' NBA championship chances after LeBron James' exit

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jul 31, 2026, 11:35 AM

Last updated Jul 31, 2026

Shaquille O’Neal assesses Lakers' NBA championship chances after LeBron James' exit

Summary

Shaquille O’Neal expressed skepticism about the Los Angeles Lakers’ prospects for the 2027 NBA championship following the departure of LeBron James. The Lakers recently replaced James, who left for the Philadelphia 76ers, with new talent to support Luka Dončić. Despite finishing the last season with 53 wins, the Lakers faced challenges in the playoffs due to Dončić's injury and a lack of scoring options. O’Neal commented that while he doesn't see a clear path to contention, surprises can happen in the league. The Lakers' roster now includes restricted free agent Walker Kessler, among other signings, as they attempt to regroup.

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By the Numbers

•LeBron James left the Lakers to join the Philadelphia 76ers.
•Lakers signed Walker Kessler on a four-year, $130 million contract.
•LA finished the 2025-26 season with 53 wins but was swept in the playoffs.
•O'Neal doubts Lakers' championship viability without James.
•Lakers are reworking their roster to support Luka Dončić.

Latest Updates

11:35 AMYahoo Sports — Lakers Legend Shaquille O’Neal Gets Brutally Honest About LA’s 2027 NBA Championship Outlook After LeBron James’ Exit

What they're saying

"
The Los Angeles Lakers had one of the NBA’s busiest offseasons, losing 22-time All-Star forward LeBron James at the outset of free agency before replacing him with a hodgepodge of players they felt could complement superstar guard Luka Dončić. While LA has exhausted most of its resources to appease Dončić, including making an all-in push for a high-level starting center, franchise icon Shaquille O’Neal doesn’t see a viable path to the 2027 NBA championship.
— Yahoo Sports

Related Teams & Leagues

Los Angeles Lakers Oklahoma City Thunder Philadelphia 76ers Utah Jazz NBA Basketball

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Yahoo SportsJul 31, 2026, 11:35 AM
Lakers Legend Shaquille O’Neal Gets Brutally Honest About LA’s 2027 NBA Championship Outlook After LeBron James’ Exit
The Los Angeles Lakers had one of the NBA’s busiest offseasons, losing 22-time All-Star forward LeBron James at the outset of free agency before replacing him with a hodgepodge of players they felt could complement superstar guard Luka Dončić. While LA has exhausted most of its resources to appease Dončić, including making an all-in push for a high-level starting center, franchise icon Shaquille O’Neal doesn’t see a viable path to the 2027 NBA championship.

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