Steve Nash says Kyrie is probably the most skilled player to ever play in the NBA

Photo by Maddie Meyer/Getty ImagesSteve Nash believes Kyrie Irving could be the most skilled player in NBA history, with the former point guard highlighting his ball-handling, shooting and ability to finish from almost any position.Speaking alongside LeBron James on the Mind the Game podcast, Nash explained why Irving’s game stands out, particularly his movement and body control.Irving has made an impressive return to the Dallas Mavericks after missing the entire 2025-26 season with an ACL injury. He has quickly formed a partnership with young star Cooper Flagg.Steve Nash praises Kyrie Irving’s movement and all-round skillNash was particularly impressed by the range of skills Irving has developed throughout his career.“I feel like Kyrie’s probably the most skilled player to ever play our game. Just the breadth of his skills. Handling, shooting from all angles. Finishing,” Nash said.The two-time NBA MVP went on to explain that Irving’s ability to move separates him from other players.“But I think what makes him really special is he’s one of the best movers. You know, we think of athletes in our league as guys that are just dunking on everyone. But his quickness, his change of direction, deceleration, his ability to control his body in the air, whether it’s shooting or finishing. Special, special athlete.”LeBron agreed with Nash’s assessment, going as far as to call Irving the most skilled player he had ever seen.The Los Angeles Lakers star recalled a playoff sequence against the LA Clippers in which Irving adjusted the ball multiple times in mid-air before finishing over two defenders.James admitted he was left wondering how his former teammate managed to pull off the move, despite having watched him closely during their time together in Cleveland.The pair won the 2016 NBA championship with the Cavaliers, completing a historic 3-1 comeback against the Golden State Warriors.Irving’s return to the Mavericks has also given fans a reminder of what he can produce. Across five appearances this season, he is averaging 21.4 points, 3.4 rebounds and 4.8 assists in just over 28 minutes per game.He is shooting 52.7 per cent from the field and 39 per cent from three-point range, while also converting all of his free throws.With Nash and James both placing Irving among the most skilled players they have watched, the 34-year-old is continuing to make an impression in Dallas following his return from injury.Read more:‘Hilarious’ – Fans love this elderly courtside fan who copied LaMelo Ball’s three-point celebrationKendrick Perkins sounds off on ‘liability’ Draymond Green after ejection against SunsLakers face Luka Doncic ‘malpractice’ warning as trade likelihood reaches 65%