As a dedicated NBA enthusiast, I've spent countless hours analyzing the game's greatest centers, and Shaquille O'Neal's dominance always stands out. From his explosive rookie season with the Orlando Magic to leading the Lakers to three straight championships and adding a fourth title with the Heat, Shaq's blend of size, speed, and sheer power was unmatched. His career is a testament to how a dominant big man can redefine an era, and even now in 2025, as we reflect on his legacy, it's clear that few could handle his prime form. But recently, Dwight Howard—fresh off his first-ballot Hall of Fame induction this year—shared a bold opinion that got me thinking: Joel Embiid might just be the one player who could stand up to Shaq. Howard, having faced Shaq and other legends during his own storied 18-year career, knows the game inside out, and his perspective adds a fascinating layer to this debate. Still, it's not without controversy, and I can't help but wonder if Embiid's playoff struggles would hold him back against a force like Shaq.

🏀 Shaquille O'Neal's Unstoppable Prime

Shaq's journey began in 1992 as the No. 1 pick, and he immediately made waves with the Orlando Magic, averaging a double-double as a rookie. His athleticism was off the charts for a man of his stature, and he quickly became a nightmare for defenders. I remember watching those early games—his ability to bulldoze through opponents in the paint was pure entertainment. Fast forward to his Lakers days, where he won three consecutive Finals MVPs, solidifying his status as one of the all-time greats. Even later with the Heat, he proved he could still dominate. Here's a quick look at his prime highlights:

• Rookie Impact: Instant double-double averages, setting the tone for his career.

• Championship Runs: Three-peat with the Lakers, showcasing unmatched postseason prowess.

• Legacy Stats: Career averages of 23.7 points and 10.9 rebounds per game—numbers that scream dominance.

People Also Ask: What made Shaq so unstoppable in his prime? It wasn't just his size; his agility and footwork for a big man were revolutionary, allowing him to outmaneuver defenders with ease. But could anyone truly match that intensity? Howard thinks so, and his Hall of Fame credentials give weight to this claim.

🤔 Dwight Howard's Controversial Pick: Joel Embiid

Dwight Howard, who joined the Hall of Fame in September 2025, has a unique connection to Shaq—both started with the Magic and won titles with the Lakers. In recent interviews, Howard emphasized that only Joel Embiid has the tools to challenge prime Shaq on both ends of the court. As a fellow center, Howard faced off against Shaq multiple times, and he believes Embiid's modern skill set could create problems. Embiid, the 2023 MVP, is a three-level scorer at 7'0" and 288 pounds, with multiple All-Defensive selections to his name. Howard's reasoning? Embiid's versatility—he can shoot from outside, drive to the basket, and defend the rim, making him a rare threat in today's game. But is that enough? I've seen Embiid play, and while he's phenomenal in the regular season, his playoff performances often leave fans wanting more.

Here's a comparison of key attributes between prime Shaq and Embiid, based on their careers:

People Also Ask: Why did Dwight Howard choose Embiid over other legends? Howard points to Embiid's ability to stretch the floor with his shooting, something Shaq rarely faced. But Embiid's tendency to avoid contact—a habit that could backfire against Shaq's physicality—raises doubts. Injuries have plagued Embiid throughout his career with the 76ers, and in high-stakes games, he's often looked fatigued or inefficient. For instance, his playoff three-point shooting is under 30%, which might not cut it against a relentless defender like Shaq.

💡 The Case for Hakeem Olajuwon and Other Contenders

While Howard backs Embiid, I can't ignore the elephant in the room: Hakeem Olajuwon. Shaq himself admitted that Olajuwon consistently got the better of him, thanks to Hakeem's footwork, defense, and clutch performances. Olajuwon elevated his game in the postseason, unlike Embiid, who has struggled with consistency under pressure. Embiid's playoff efficiency—shooting just 45% from the field—pales in comparison to Olajuwon's 52.8% in his prime. Other names like Tim Duncan or David Robinson come to mind, but Olajuwon's two-way dominance makes him a stronger candidate in my book. Howard's pick is understandable given Embiid's current relevance in 2025, but it overlooks proven reliability.

People Also Ask: How would Embiid's style fare against Shaq's physical play? Embiid might score in isolation, but Shaq's post moves and double-team drawing could expose Embiid's defensive lapses. Ultimately, this debate isn't just about stats; it's about mentality. Shaq thrived in big moments, while Embiid's legacy is still clouded by unmet expectations. As fans, we should ponder: Is there a player today who embodies that old-school toughness? 💭

In wrapping up, Howard's insight sparks a deeper conversation about evolution in the NBA. Embiid represents the new era of skilled big men, but facing prime Shaq would require more than finesse—it demands resilience. Who do you think could rise to the challenge? The answer might lie in untested potential or forgotten legends, leaving us all to reflect on what truly defines greatness.