Shaquille O’Neal Says Lakers Need Proven Shooter to Reach Western Conference Top Four

Shaquille O’Neal has expressed concerns over the Los Angeles Lakers' lack of a guaranteed, elite three-point shooter despite improvements to their roster, including the addition of Deandre Ayton and the presence of premier players like Luka Doncic and LeBron James. While the Lakers have several above-average shooters such as Doncic, James, Austin Reaves, and Rui Hachimura, O’Neal emphasized the need for a consistent sharpshooter akin to JJ Redick to elevate the team from contender to champion. The Lakers finished last season with a middling 36.6% team three-point percentage and lost perimeter defender Dorian Finney-Smith in free agency, raising further concerns about their shooting and perimeter defense. O’Neal remains optimistic about the team's prospects, predicting a top-four seed in the Western Conference and home-court advantage in the playoffs, though he cautioned the team must add shooting talent to maximize their potential. The Lakers' front office has made some offseason moves but has yet to secure a proven three-point specialist, leaving open the possibility of trades or free agent signings before the season starts. Overall, O’Neal acknowledges the team's balance and talent but underscores that acquiring a bonafide shooter could be the key difference in postseason success.