After the NBA pregame show on the Bucks and Nets game and the Lakers and Warriors at Staples Centre, Shaquille O’Neal strolled down the steps from the TNT set outside L.A. Live and made his way to the green room for supper. While there, he collected his thoughts on LeBron James’ legacy in the NBA.

During his walk and autograph signing on Tuesday, Shaquille O’Neal declared that “LeBron is the best player—ever” if James surpasses Hall of Famer and Lakers icon Kareem Abdul-Jabbar to become the all-time top scorer in NBA history.

Absolutely, according to O’Neal, James would exceed the legendary Michael Jordan, who is held in high regard by James and is regarded as the greatest player to have ever played in the NBA.

O’Neal said, “I know what he’s doing,” while he was consuming roast beef. “Winning championships is fantastic, but his goal is to surpass Kareem.” He is acting in this manner.

I am fully aware of his actions. Because if you pass Kareem up right now, nobody will discuss who the greatest player of all time is. Consider that. I saw that over the next few years, he must average [25] points or something similar, which he will accomplish. He has another two years to complete it.

With 35,367 points at the start of the season versus Golden State, James trailed only Abdul-Jabbar (38,387) and Karl Malone (36,928) in league scoring history.

James has averaged 27 points across his 18 NBA seasons, up from 25 points per game the previous season.