DeMar DeRozan Claps Back at Critic Over Passing Shaq on Scoring List

The Sacramento Kings star isn't holding back in his response to someone who finds it 'disturbing' that he could surpass the NBA legend.

Apr. 10, 2026 at 12:08am

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An abstract, expressionist painting featuring bold, neon-colored brushstrokes that capture the intense energy and movement of a basketball player driving to the hoop, their face and jersey dissolving into a vibrant, textured blur.DeMar DeRozan's scorching response to criticism over his pursuit of Shaquille O'Neal on the NBA's all-time scoring list reflects the passion and drive that has fueled his rise up the record books.Chicago Today

DeMar DeRozan, the star player for the Sacramento Kings, has fired back at a social media user who said they found it 'disturbing' that DeRozan is closing in on passing Shaquille O'Neal on the NBA's all-time scoring list. DeRozan, who has been in the league since 2009, is currently 16th on the scoring list and is within reach of cracking the top 10, which includes O'Neal at 10th place. DeRozan had some strong words for the critic, calling them a 'clown' for having an opinion on his career accomplishments.

Why it matters

DeRozan's pursuit of Shaq on the all-time scoring list is a significant milestone, as the former Lakers and Heat star is considered one of the most dominant big men in NBA history. DeRozan's ability to potentially surpass Shaq speaks to his own longevity and scoring prowess over his 14-year career so far. This exchange also highlights the intense scrutiny and criticism that star players often face, even as they achieve historic feats.

The details

DeRozan currently has 26,702 career points, which puts him 16th on the NBA's all-time scoring list. He is closing in on several Hall of Famers ahead of him, including Russell Westbrook, Elvin Hayes, Moses Malone, Carmelo Anthony, and Shaquille O'Neal, who is 10th with 28,596 points. One social media user expressed that they found it 'deeply disturbing' that DeRozan could potentially surpass Shaq, prompting a fiery response from the Kings star. DeRozan fired back, saying 'Disturbing!? F*** that mean? Who the hell is you to have an opinion on somebody career. Clown!'

  • DeRozan recently surpassed Oscar Robertson for 16th on the NBA's all-time scoring list.
  • Shaquille O'Neal is currently 10th on the all-time scoring list with 28,596 points.

The players

DeMar DeRozan

A six-time NBA All-Star who has played in the league since 2009, currently with the Sacramento Kings. He is closing in on passing Shaquille O'Neal on the NBA's all-time scoring list.

Shaquille O'Neal

A Hall of Fame center who is 10th on the NBA's all-time scoring list with 28,596 points. He is considered one of the most dominant big men in league history.

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What they’re saying

“Disturbing!? F*** that mean? Who the hell is you to have an opinion on somebody career. Clown!”

— DeMar DeRozan, Sacramento Kings Player

What’s next

DeRozan will need to continue his consistent scoring pace over the next few seasons to have a chance of passing Shaquille O'Neal and cracking the NBA's top 10 all-time scorers.

The takeaway

This exchange highlights the intense scrutiny and criticism that star NBA players often face, even as they achieve historic feats like potentially surpassing an all-time great like Shaquille O'Neal on the scoring list. DeRozan's fiery response shows his determination to not let outside opinions diminish his own career accomplishments.