LeBron James: 'I believe Kyrie (Irving) can be the best point guard'
At the release of his new Nike shoes Tuesday night, Cleveland Cavaliers forward LeBron James (OK, less weird to type that than it was in July, but still weird) said that he believes Kyrie Irving can be the best point guard in the league, and that he wants to help Kevin Love become the best power forward in the league.
"I believe Kyrie can be the best point guard in the league very soon, and Kevin Love is already in the discussion as far as being the best power forward in the league," James said. "We have so many great [power forwards]: Tim Duncan, if he's playing center or power forward, Dirk Nowitzki, LaMarcus Aldridge, Chris Bosh, Pau Gasol is still very good. But that's my vision, to maximize [Love's] potential, and his potential to be the best at his position."
via Nike unveils LeBron James' latest signature sneaker, the 'LeBron 12' - NBA - SI.com.
Pretty standard "support your teammates" stuff from James. In reality, there was a reasonable belief two years ago that Irving could be the best point guard in the league in the next five years. But those expections have been tempered by questions about Irving's durability, his leadership, and his lowered production during Cleveland's struggles.
But Irving's handle is elite, he's a tremendous shooter, and has huge upside as a playmaker.
Love's a bit easier. You can make a pretty easy argument that he was the best power forward in the league last season. LaMarcus Aldridge is a great answer. Tim Duncan has the legend behind him. Dirk Nowitzki is still incredible. But no one was better offensively overall than Love. If his defense next to the Cavs defenders can reach even "acceptable" levels, he could cement that position easily.
James wants to play with the best. His coming home was about redemption, but he's not done competing. Whether the other two can live up to that kind of standard will determine if Cleveland can finally win a championship.
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