Los Angeles Lakers

Magic Johnson perfectly explains why Shaq is getting a Lakers statue

Published Jan. 29, 2016 2:27 p.m. ET

foxsports

On Wednesday, Jimmy Kimmel stunned Shaquille O'Neal with news that the future Hall of Famer is getting his own statue outside of Staples Center next season.

On Friday, fellow Los Angeles Lakers great Magic Johnson explained why that is an excellent decision. You know you've made it when Magic is singing your praises like this:

I'm so happy for @SHAQ, being the next Lakers great to get a statue outside of Staples Center!
— Earvin Magic Johnson (@MagicJohnson) January 29, 2016

.@SHAQ captivated the hearts of Laker fans with his dominant performances that led us to a 3-peat!
— Earvin Magic Johnson (@MagicJohnson) January 29, 2016

Laker fans not only loved @Shaq on the court but off the court as well with his BIG personality and philanthropic efforts in the City of LA!
— Earvin Magic Johnson (@MagicJohnson) January 29, 2016

Great job by Lakers Owner @JeanieBuss to honor @Shaq with a statue.
— Earvin Magic Johnson (@MagicJohnson) January 29, 2016

Shaq will almost certainly be adding to legacy in another way too, as he was named a Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame nominee in December. Before Kimmel dropped the statue news, he asked Shaq who he'd like to introduce him if he's selected.

"Well if I get picked, I would love to have Dr. J, Magic Johnson, and Dale Brown bring me in," he said.

Here's guessing Magic would be honored.