In a recent episode of The Stephen A. Smith Show, Stephen A. Smith once again found himself in the middle of a heated discussion—this time regarding the NBA 2K25 player rating, specifically that of Dallas Mavericks star Kyrie Irving. The outspoken host, known for his often controversial takes, argued that Irving’s 92 overall rating in the game was too low, especially when compared to other players in the league.
The conversation sparked when Ronnie Singh, also known as “Ronnie 2K,” joined Smith on his show to discuss NBA 2K25’s latest player rating. As the Digital Marketing Director for the game and the face of NBA 2K, Ronnie 2K often finds himself at the center of fan outrage and debates over the ratings given to players. This time, it was Stephen A. leading the charge, with the host expressing disbelief that Irving—a player with some of the best on-ball skills in the game—was given a mere 92 overall rating.
Smith wasted no time in highlighting Kyrie’s offensive brilliance, pointing to his jaw-dropping handles, ability to score at all three levels, and championship experience. But his biggest point of contention? That WNBA rookie Caitlin Clark received a 91 rating in the game. “How is it possible that Kyrie Irving, one of the most gifted players the league has ever seen, is barely rated higher than a rookie who hasn’t even played a minute in the NBA?” Smith questioned. His argument revolved around the fact that Irving, despite his off-court controversies, remains one of the most electrifying guards in the league
In response to Smith’s fiery criticism, Ronnie 2K offered an explanation. “I mean, that guy does everything,” Ronnie said, praising Kyrie’s skill set. However, he quickly added that Irving’s rating reflects his career trajectory in recent years. “Kyrie was kind of hurt a little bit by sample size. He kind of disappeared in Boston, and moving over [to Dallas], he’s had a bit of a rejuvenation. But maybe it’s still a little work in progress.”
Ronnie went on to emphasize that the rating system is fluid, and players can improve their rating as the season progresses For NBA 2K25. For Kyrie, it’s not set in stone. “As long as Kyrie remains happy with the Mavs and can duplicate his past success, he can climb to the mid-90s,” Ronnie explained, suggesting that Irving’s future rating will depend on his performance in the upcoming season.
Though Ronnie 2K attempted to calm the storm, his explanation didn’t sit well with some fans—many of whom echoed Stephen A. Smith’s sentiment that Irving’s rating of 92 was a slight against the All-Star guard.
Not one to be easily swayed, Stephen A. continued to push back on Ronnie’s justification, calling the current rating “disrespectful” to Irving’s talents. “This man is an NBA champion! He hit one of the biggest shots in NBA Finals history, and you’re telling me a 92 is all he’s worth?”
Smith didn’t stop there. He also pointed out that Irving’s unique skill set—his ball-handling wizardry, elite finishing at the rim, and ability to take over games—should have pushed his rating closer to the mid-90s from the start. “I’m not saying Kyrie should be a 99, but you’re telling me he can’t be a 94 or 95? Come on now!”
While Stephen A. Smith is known for his hyperbolic takes, he might have a point in this case. Despite his off-court controversies and a somewhat rocky transition from Brooklyn to Dallas, Irving remains one of the most skilled guards in the league. His ability to create shots out of nothing, break down defenses with his ball-handling, and deliver in clutch moments is undeniable.
In his limited time with the Mavericks last season, Irving averaged 27 points, 6 assists, and 5 rebounds per game while shooting an efficient 49.4% from the field and 37.9% from beyond the arc. Those numbers are nothing short of elite, yet it appears his turbulent moves between teams, along with his unpredictable off-court behavior, may have contributed to his relatively lower rating.
At the same time, one can understand why Ronnie 2K and his team might have been conservative with Irving’s rating in NBA 2K25. Kyrie’s career has been plagued by inconsistency, and his brief stint with the Mavericks didn’t exactly elevate the team to title contention. The Mavericks missed the playoffs altogether, and much of that was blamed on team chemistry issues and questionable fit between Irving and Luka Dončić.
It’s also worth noting that Luka Dončić, Irving’s teammate, is rated a 97 overall, tying him with Nikola Jokić and Giannis Antetokounmpo as the highest-rated players in NBA 2K25. While Kyrie’s rating is nothing to scoff at, Luka’s towering 97 might make Irving’s 92 seem less impressive in comparison, further fueling the controversy.
The Mavericks’ dynamic duo of Luka and Kyrie may yet live up to its potential, but for now, Irving’s rating reflects the uncertainty surrounding his role in Dallas and his ability to return to his peak form consistently.
Whether Kyrie Irving’s 92 overall rating is fair or not is a matter of perspective. On one hand, it accounts for his somewhat inconsistent play and tumultuous off-court history. On the other, it seems low for a player as uniquely talented as Kyrie, especially when compared to other top-tier athletes in the game.
As Stephen A. Smith would put it, “the man’s greatness is undeniable.” Only time will tell if Irving can prove his critics—and NBA 2K—wrong, by climbing back into the mid-90s where many believe he belongs.
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