The Lakers’ Disappointment
The 1997–98 Los Angeles Lakers were anticipated to excel, finishing the regular season with a 61–21 record, the second-best in the Western Conference, heading into the playoffs with championship aspirations.
Utah’s Sweep
However, the Lakers faced a reality check when they were swept by the Utah Jazz in the Western Conference finals, led by John Stockton and Karl Malone. For Shaquille O’Neal, this defeat marked yet another painful playoff exit.
Locker Room Outburst
Following game four, O’Neal’s frustration boiled over in the locker room. At just 26 and the league’s most dominant player, he couldn’t escape the postseason curse, which led him to rage — kicking doors and wreaking havoc.
Jerry West’s Intervention
In the midst of chaos, Jerry West intervened. O’Neal recalled, “West came in there like a gangster. What the hell are you doing? He just pinned me up,” referencing West’s unexpected strength.
Insights from Experience
West, a seasoned player who had faced his own playoff disappointments, reassured the frustrated center. O’Neal recalled West saying, “I went to the Finals seven times before winning; your time will come.” This perspective helped ease O’Neal’s frustration.
Path to Success
Soon after, the Lakers began their ascent. O’Neal transformed into a championship leader, culminating in a 2000 title, and won three consecutive championships from 2000 to 2002. His averages of 35.9 points and 15.2 rebounds per game in those Finals demonstrated his growth and maturity in overcoming past failures.
