Shaq Looks Like A Major Hater Talking Dwight Howard, Needs To Take A Page From Kobe Bryant's Book

Former Lakers star Shaquille O'Neal was talking with Dwight Howard this morning on his own podcast, but it didn't take long before he started sipping the haterade:

"Follow your dreams," O'Neal said. "Shut yo' A** up. You ain't do nada."

Shaq doesn't name anybody in particular, but the target of his shade is more than obvious. He, of course, is alluding to Dwight Howard's role as a bench player that eventually led to his first NBA title. D12 hopped on Instagram to flex on his haters and celebrate like the rest of his teammates.

Shaq and Dwight have always butted heads, but the timing of his hate looks pathetic. O'Neal needs to take a page out of Kobe Bryant's humble ending and let Dwight Howard have his flowers.

Shaq is worried that Howard might change the love Lakers fans still have for the Big Diesel, and that in itself is a shame. His running mate in the early 2000s, the late Kobe Bryant, had no problem sharing the limelight with LeBron James. Kobe could have decided to be bitter the same way Shaq chooses to be now. There's enough sun for both Shaq and Dwight to shine, but unfortunately, Shaq wants it all for himself. He comes across like a bitter old man who's insecure about his legacy and Dwight Howard's talent.

Shaq needs to remember that the Lakers didn't build him a stature outside Staples Center in downtown Los Angeles for nothing. Dwight Howard's accomplishments don't cast a shadow over Shaq's legacy.

Take a page out of Kobe's book

Kobe left us in January with a final tweet that congratulated LeBron James on passing him on the all-time scoring list. He had plenty of reasons to say nothing to LeBron in the hopes savoring his own accomplishments, but he chose grace instead. Kobe, who had his own run-ins with Shaq, matured and became more secure with himself. In a way, his maturity to discuss and embrace other greats made fans and haters alike respect his game even more than ever before.

Shaq and Kobe's mentalities switched, which is why Kobe Bryant will be remembered as a more honorable man. Shaq continues to let his ego get in the way. Dwight Howard has every right to be proud of himself. He won an NBA title, if he played only a limited role. Shaq's childishness should not affect Howard's sense of accomplishment.

Whenever the 34-year-old Dwight Howard retires, he will still be a champion. He may not have played the role of Shaq or Kobe, but he did have much to do with why the Lakers eventually prevailed. His defense make him an unsung hero, and the Lakers wouldn't have won without his contribution.

Shaq needs to pay more attention to how Kobe lived his life and better his. We can only hope he learns his lesson and secures a legacy of sportsmanship and good will. Kobe would be proud.