LeBron James has partnered with numerous superstars throughout his NBA career.
In Miami, LeBron James teamed with Dwyane Wade and Chris Bosh to form ‘The Big Three‘, one of the past two decades’ most famous trios.
With the Cleveland Cavaliers with whom he won one title, LeBron played alongside Kyrie Irving and All-Star power forward Kevin Love.
Currently with the Los Angeles Lakers, LeBron won a championship with Anthony Davis and now plays with Luka Doncic.
Photo by Gregory Shamus/Getty ImagesBrian Windhorst ranks Kyrie Irving above Dwyane Wade and Anthony Davis for on-court compatibility with LeBron James
While those names represent elite talent deserving consideration as LeBron’s best teammate, NBA insider Brian Windhorst believes that distinction belongs to Kyrie Irving.
“In my opinion the best, most compatible teammate LeBron has ever had in Kyrie,” Windhorst stated.
“There were moments where he and Wade were transcendent, there were moments where he and AD were impossible to deal with.”
Windhorst’s argument centers on Irving perfectly complementing LeBron’s skill set better than any other superstar partner, particularly regarding ball-handling versatility.
“The guy who he played with who best fit his skillset was Kyrie, because you need a guy who can handle the ball, that is also awesome off the ball,” Windhorst explained.
Kyrie Irving’s versatility enabled LeBron James‘ in-game rest strategy
Windhorst particularly highlighted how Irving’s dual capabilities allowed LeBron to conserve energy during games by ceding offensive control at strategic moments.
“One of the things that LeBron perfected during his Kyrie years was resting during the game. He was very happy to let Kyrie go ahead and cook at various times, it was just that LeBron ate first.”
However, Windhorst acknowledged that the hierarchy dynamic contributed to eventual separation.
“It did irritate Kyrie a little bit and contributed to his desire to leave,” he added.
The LeBron-Irving partnership produced one championship, famously overcoming a 3-1 deficit to defeat the Golden State Warriors 4-3 in the 2016 Finals.
Shortly afterward, they separated, with LeBron winning another championship while Irving has yet to capture a second ring.
This season, both pursue additional championships with their respective teams, though no longer as teammates.