NBA Player Power Rankings: Superstars Keep Making History

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Mar 25, 2017; Cleveland, OH, USA; Cleveland Cavaliers guard Kyrie Irving (2) reacts after a play during the second half against the Washington Wizards at Quicken Loans Arena. The Wizards won 127-115. Mandatory Credit: Ken Blaze-USA TODAY Sports /

17. Kyrie Irving, Cleveland Cavaliers

Position: Point Guard
Age: 25 (3/23/1992)
Experience: 6th Season
2016-17 Slash Line: .469/.394/.904
2016-17 Season Averages: 35.0 MPG, 25.2 PPG, 5.7 APG, 3.3 RPG, 1.2 SPG, 2.5 3PM

Cleveland Cavaliers point guard Kyrie Irving had a rough week. He was thoroughly outplayed by John Wall during a 127-115 loss to the Washington Wizards and posted just eight points on 4-of-13 shooting during a 103-74 loss to the San Antonio Spurs.

For as poor as his week may have been, Irving holds on to his spot in the Top 20 due to the undeniable fact that he’s a key member of a championship contender.

Irving stepped up during Cleveland’s win over the Charlotte Hornets by posting 26 points, seven assists, and four steals. Irving closed out the week with 20 points and four 3-point field goals made during the Cavaliers’ 99-93 loss to the Chicago Bulls, but shot just 7-of-20 from the field.

That followed one of the strongest weeks of his career, however, which creates the balance that keeps him ranked.

If the Cavaliers are going to reach the NBA Finals for a third consecutive season, then Irving will be a key component of the push. He’s LeBron James’ closer and a dynamic playmaker who is developing the ability to create for those around him.

The question is: will Irving and the Cavaliers turn things around and improve upon this cold stretch? Or could another team sneak up and shock them?