Stephen Curry is the reigning two-time MVP of the NBA, but how far behind is Kyrie Irving, an up-and-coming superstar in the NBA?
Stephen Curry and Kyrie Irving battled it out for seven games in the NBA Finals. Even though Steph wasn’t 100 percent healthy and had somewhat of a down series, the Cavs ended up taking home the title.
In the end, you can say that it all came down to Kyrie’s 3-pointer that sealed the deal. Who was guarding him? You guessed it, Steph Curry.
NBA Finals Comparison
Steph Curry Kyrie Irving
22.6 Points Per Game 27.1 Points Per Game
4.9 Rebounds Per Game 3.9 Rebounds Per Game
3.7 Assists Per Game 3.9 Assists Per Game
0.9 Steals Per Game 2.1 Steals Per Game
40.3 Field Goal % 46.8 Field Goal %
40.0 3pt Field Goal % 40.5 3pt Field Goal %
When you think of Steph, you think of an MVP caliber player who is, in my opinion, the greatest shooter of all time. He has one of the best handles in the NBA and is one of the flashiest passers in the league.
Then, there is Kyrie.
Who is also an MVP caliber player, although he will never win it playing alongside “The King” also know as LeBron James. Kyrie’s handles are just as good as Steph’s, if not slightly better. Kyrie is also an above average passer however, again, playing alongside LeBron he plays more of a shooting guard’s role.
Who has the better handles? Both Steph and Kyrie are incredible ball handlers. Who has better jump shot? I would say Steph. Who is a better finisher at the rim? I would say Kyrie.
Steph Curry is the back-to-back league MVP, but how far behind is Kyrie Irving?
Steph’s forte is shooting as we all know. He can pull up from just about anywhere on the floor as we saw in Oklahoma City when he hit the near half court game-winner.
It’s unprecedented how good he is at shooting and how effortless he makes it look.
Kyrie’s forte is finishing at the basket. In my opinion, the only point guard who is arguably better is Russell Westbrook. The difference is Russell finishes with authority and power at the rim. Whereas Kyrie finishes with timing and finesse.
Who has the better handles? Both Steph and Kyrie are incredible ball handlers.
Who has better jump shot? I would say Steph.
Who is a better finisher at the rim? I would say Kyrie.
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Overall, is Kyrie a better player than Steph? I don’t think so. All I’m saying is that it is a lot closer than people think. Kyrie is 24 years old and Steph is 28. The crazy thing to think about is how good will Kyrie be four years down the road.