Can’t Shaq and Phil Just Get Along?

Who would have dreamed that Shaq would go from being the Big Aristotle to Rodney Dangerfield?

Shaq, we all respect your two rings and the determination and hustle you bring to every game, but Phil, after all, is your coach, not your P.R. agent. His criticisms of your free-throw shooting and conditioning were well taken and reasonable. And if “it’s all about respect,” how about a little of that for Phil’s 10 rings?

Paul Chipello

Northridge

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Somebody please tell Shaq to visit ground zero next time he’s in New York to give him a little perspective on how fortunate he is. He’s one of the luckiest people on the planet and all he does is complain. It’s disgusting.

Carter Blanchard

Los Angeles

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I kind of agree with Shaq’s comments that he deserves more respect from Phil Jackson. When Jackson first arrived, perhaps his comments were appropriate in order to motivate Shaq to a championship. But he should have laid off a long time ago. He never said boo about Jordan, even when M.J. was out gambling in Atlantic City the night before a playoff game.

Mike MacKenzie

Tustin

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T.J. Simers is slipping. His Nov.20 column on Shaq and Phil Jackson contained some actual humor.

John Shipp

West Los Angeles