Although it’s the one discussed most, the tired “Michael Jordan vs. LeBron James” conversation isn’t the only NBA debate out there. (The answer, by the way, is MJ.)
Who’s the best big man of all time? Best defender? There used to be a debate about the best three-point shooter, but Stephen Curry ended that with his in-the-gym range.
Another debate Curry is typically mentioned is the game’s best ballhandler, currently. His rival in the conversation is Boston Celtics point guard Kyrie Irving.
Well, “rivals” may not be an accurate term to use to describe their relationship anymore.
The Athletic recently polled 127 players in the NBA about various debates, including best ballhandler in the game. Irving ran away with 77.1 percent of the vote, finishing first. Curry only mustered 7.4 percent of the vote, narrowly edging out Kemba Walker (6.2 percent) for second place.
Irving’s margin of victory (69.7 percent) and total percentage were the largest in any individual players category. (The players were also asked, “Which team, other than your own, will win the title this season?” Only 110 voted on this question, of which, 79.5 percent picked Golden State. They finished ahead of second place by 72.7 percent.)
Whether you look at Irving’s highlight reel or watch him for five minutes in a Celtics game, the results shouldn’t come as a shock.
