Kyrie Irving is well-known for being a fiery personality both on and off the court. He has used his position as an NBA player to share his views and ideas on a wide range of social and cultural topics. His outspoken personality has made him a significant figure in discussions outside of sports; drawing attention to his views on social justice, politics, and personal convictions. The 31-year-old just doesn’t shy away.

Most recently, Kyrie Irving had a strong admission to make about a former MVP. However, soon after Irving went off on social media, Stephen A. Smith turned his attention to the former NBA MVP.

Kyrie Irving stands up for a former MVP

Russell Westbrook, previously regarded as one of the most agile and prolific point guards in basketball history experienced a severe decline in his career recently. Westbrook’s transition from averaging triple-doubles with ease to dealing with a failed season with the Los Angeles Lakers has aroused eyebrows in the basketball world. He won the MVP award in 2016-2017 as a phenomenal scorer and acrobatic rim player. However, recently, his player value has gone down.

He recently re-signed with the LA Clippers. However, his new contract spanning over two years comes with a significant pay cut. Westbrook, who had a salary of $47 million last season, will now receive $4 million this year, leaving many in shock.

Despite the troubling odds that await Westbrook, he finds an unexpected ally in Kyrie Irving.

Irving recently revealed his thoughts on Westbrook’s impact on the game on his Instagram story. He wrote, ?Let?s not pretend this Dude right here didn?t revolutionize the Game and inspire us all to do things YOUR way and say fu** em all.?

His story was accompanied by a reel of Westbrook’s highlights.

Being one of the most scrutinized players in the league, Irving’s comment could be a huge reassurance to Westbrook.

Meanwhile, Stephen A. Smith dug into his comment.

Stephen A. Smith analyses Irving’s comment

During a recent episode of his show, Irving’s comment was the focal point of discussion. He said, ” Russell Westbrook is the most athletic point guard in the history of basketball. I know how much he cares and I know that he never cheats us with effort.”

Read More:?Months After Clippers Spent Half a Billion on Its All-Star Duo, Gilbert Arenas, and Co Discuss What $7M Russell Westbrook Brings to the Table

However, he was of the opinion that he could not just leave the bad parts out of Irving’s comment.

Smith continued, “It begs an evaluation of his greatness. As he’s been walking triple-double… League MVP, respected universally…You don’t have a ring after having those teammates? That is not good…”

However, just when his words started to sound like him criticizing the player, he went on to laud his off-court efforts. He said, “What is good about Russell Westbrook? We don’t give this man enough respect, love, and deference for his philanthropy.”?

Apart from being a businessman, the 34-year-old has a foundation for the underserved. The ‘Why Not?’ foundation inspires the lives of children and teaches them to never give up. And just because he does not have a championship ring, it does not take away from his greatness.

He continued, “He’s a real one. I love the brother.”

Watch This Story: Russell Westbrook vs Stephen Curry: What Do the Numbers Say on Who?s the Better Point Guard?

What are your thoughts on Westbrook? Let us know in the comments below!