Open your eyes!’ Shaquille O’Neal criticized Karl Anthony-Towns’ strategy during the game.
In a fierce critique on Inside the NBA
, Shaquille O’Neal did not hold back on his disappointment with Karl Anthony-Towns after Game 3. The Lakers legend expressed frustration with Towns’ approach to shooting threes during the game.
O’Neal’s criticism comes after Towns managed to score modestly, securing just 18 points and 8 rebounds, but dealt with foul trouble throughout the match.
Tension on the Court
The tension was palpable as Towns missed critical shots in an intense fourth quarter where the Timberwolves were outscored by the opponent. According to Inside the NBA
, Shaq voiced poignant criticism:
‘It’s one game,’ said NBA analyst Charles Barkley regarding Karl Anthony-Towns’ performance.
Big Men in Modern NBA
Shaq’s insistence that modern big men like Towns should dominate inside rather than focus on perimeter shots reflects a traditional view of center play.‘After you shoot 2 threes, and it don’t go down, take your big ass in the lane,’ he said.
This isn’t Shaq’s first time offering such criticisms. He has often used opportunities on Inside the NBA
to critique basketball approaches he finds lacking in physicality.
The Timberwolves Fightback
Karl Anthony-Towns demonstrated impressive scoring capabilities earlier this season, achieving remarkable stats including 10-for-15 from three-point range. However, Shaq’s advice clearly underscores a need for balance and strategic adaptability.
Not All Critique is Constructive
‘It should also be noted that the criticism O’Neal offered Mitchell was hardly constructive,’ highlighted another analyst, pointing towards a pattern in Shaq’s commentary.
Towns finished 21 for 35 from the floor, including 10 for 15 from three-point range, and now owns the top three scoring outputs in the Wolves’ history.
A Call for Evolution
Ultimately, whether Towns can heed Shaquille O’Neal’s call to balance his gameplay could prove pivotal for the Timberwolves moving forward.
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