Game 39 Dirkie Thread: Kyrie Irving--by a mile.

[DanSchwartzgan]

I'd argue that a player provides the greatest value to his team when he complements the players around him.  This might or might not maximize his own abilities.

 

I've appreciated Kyrie's game lately.  He clearly could choose to dominate every possession, demand the ball - yet he willingly shares and seeks to get teammates good looks.

Could Josh Green look for his shot more?  Sure.  Could any player?  Also, yes.

Would it be helpful to the team?  That's the bigger question.

I like what someone said yesterday about their kid having a "B" and demanding a teacher conference.  Is this really a problem?

I think the picture you are painting is especially pertinent on this team.  Luka is going to just demand a certain amount of usage.  I think Kyrie is also announcing he can only defer so much (he said as much the other day regarding the beginnings of games).  And, THJ, right or wrong, is going to 'get his'.

I find it incredibly valuable that Josh has this switch to his game.  The issue would be if  he couldn't come through on those nights when either Luka or Kyrie is missing.  I'm glad he's not jacking up 23 shots per 100 possessions or hitting 38% of his FG's like some of our other guards.  Would it hurt my feelings if he found a usage groove closer to Exum's?  No, not at all.  But, I think we tend to miss what Josh is because we spend so much time trying to make him something he isn't...yet.  Frankly, I'm really glad he has that gear even if he only uses it occasionally.