An All-Time Handle Master: Irving’s Place in NBA History

In the "greatest point guard" talk, the list usually has Magic, Stockton, Curry, Paul, Nash. In the "most beautiful technique, most unsolvable handle" column, Kyrie Irving’s name is nearly irreplaceable.

Irving’s historical standing first rests on the benchmark meaning of "handle art." He polished crossover, behind-the-back and pull-up to textbook level, then added personal variants that defenders still cannot predict. Many active guards admit their dribbleinspiration came from Irving.

In numbers, Irving made multiple All-Star and All-NBA teams, is a 2016 champion, and won a Three-Point Contest and Rising Stars MVP. His regular-season scoring sat at 20+ for years; his playoff clutch efficiency is higher. Without a regular-season MVP or FMVP, his "champion + clutch" weight still earns a spot in the all-time top point-guard debate.

More unique is his cultural value. As said, Uncle Drew made basketball "pretty and warm" — influence numbers cannot measure. In the global, social-media NBA, Irving’s highlight spread is huge, inspiring countless overseas kids to pick up a ball.

Of course, evaluate Irving objectively: his team leadership and availability were questioned, and four teams show fit was not always smooth. But in "the craft of controlling the ball at his fingertips," he is first tier.

When future fans look back at 2010s-2020s NBA, they will remember a lefty who, with the prettiest footwork, in the biggest moments, sank the deadliest shots. That is Kyrie Irving, the all-time handle master.

Related Reading

• An All-Time System Player: Green’s Place in NBA History
• The Art of the Handle: Why Irving Is Called the Handle Master
• A Tribute to Kyrie Irving: The Handle Master’s Legend Continues
• Hard Work and Dedication: Irving’s Obsession on the Practice Floor
• From Cleveland to Dallas: Irving’s Journeys and Persistence