Pre-2019-20 Rank: #15, Pre-2020-21 Rank: #14, Pre-2021-22 Rank #14, Pre-2022-23 Rank #14, Pre-2023-24 Rank: #15.
Peak Period: 2014-15 to 2020-21.
For many years, Kyrie Irving has been the most polarizing player in Basketball, and at times, all North American sports. It has never been about his play, as he is a multi-time All-Star, a three-time All-NBA Selection at Point Guard who can take over a game. He helped LeBron James win the NBA Championship in Cleveland, and when he wanted to be the alpha, he was primarily applauded when he became a Boston Celtic in 2017, but that was when things became weird for the former Uncle Drew.
Irving pledged to bring greatness to Boston, but despite two All-Star years (and no deep playoff run), he signed with their rival Brooklyn, where a super team formed with him, Kevin Durant, and James Harden. The big three fell apart as quickly as they came together, with Irving’s Brooklyn run marred by his refusal to get the jab and alleged antisemitism. Irving, who marches to his tune, may have alienated many fans, but he is true to his convictions, knowing that it would (and did) cost him millions in endorsements. He would force his way out of Brooklyn and, in his first full year in his fourth team, the Dallas Mavericks, where, along with Luka Doncic, he went to the NBA Finals.
With all his past (and maybe future) controversies, Irving might have to do more than most to ensure a spot in Springfield, and if he adds a ring in Dallas, his biggest haters will struggle to keep him out.
