“No Weaknesses!” – Klay Thompson Praises Kyrie Irving as a Living Legend

Golden State Warriors star Klay Thompson has never been shy about giving credit where it’s due. Recently, he delivered some of the highest praise possible to Dallas Mavericks guard Kyrie Irving, calling him one of the toughest players he has ever faced and a true leader who brings a special energy every time he steps onto the court. For a veteran and four-time NBA champion like Thompson, words like these carry real weight, especially when directed toward someone who shares a similar journey into the league.

Shared History in the 2011 Draft Class

Both Klay Thompson and Kyrie Irving entered the NBA in the 2011 draft, a class that would go on to produce multiple All-Stars and champions. Irving, the number one overall pick, arrived with massive expectations and quickly proved that he could not only meet them but surpass them. Thompson, selected later in the first round, carved out his own path as one of the greatest shooters and two-way guards in NBA history.

Reflecting on their beginnings, Thompson said, “We came into the league together — same draft class, 2011 — and I just have great respect for Kyrie.” This shared timeline adds depth to the mutual respect between them. They’ve grown, evolved, and battled on the league’s biggest stages, seeing firsthand how each has impacted the game.

The Toughest Player He’s Ever Guarded

When Thompson describes someone as the toughest he has ever guarded, it is no small statement. Over his career, he has defended a long list of all-time greats: LeBron James, Kevin Durant, Kobe Bryant, James Harden, and many others. Yet Irving stands out among them.

“He’s the toughest guy I’ve ever guarded. Put him up there with LeBron, KD, and Kobe. He’s got no weaknesses in his game,” Thompson emphasized. For defenders at the highest level, finding even a small flaw can provide an edge. But in Irving’s case, there is no obvious weakness to exploit. His ability to score from anywhere, handle the ball with unmatched creativity, and make high-pressure plays in critical moments makes him nearly impossible to contain.

A Complete Offensive Arsenal

What sets Kyrie Irving apart is not just his scoring, but the completeness of his offensive skill set. He is widely regarded as one of the greatest ball-handlers in NBA history, capable of creating separation with lightning-quick crossovers, behind-the-back moves, and spins that leave defenders off-balance. Beyond ball-handling, he is elite in finishing at the rim, using both hands with incredible touch, footwork, and body control.

Irving’s mid-range jumper is smooth and reliable, while his three-point shooting remains a constant threat, forcing defenders to guard him tightly even far beyond the arc. Add in his ability to read defenses, create plays for teammates, and stay calm under playoff pressure, and you have the definition of a complete offensive player.

Leadership and Energy That Elevates Others

While Kyrie Irving’s skills often steal the spotlight, Thompson pointed to something equally important — his leadership and the energy he brings. “You can just feel that energy when he walks in the building,” Thompson said. “He elevates everybody… he’s such a great leader.”

This leadership has become more visible in Dallas, where Irving plays alongside Luka Dončić. Together, they form one of the most dynamic backcourts in the NBA, blending youth and experience, creativity and scoring power. Irving’s calm presence and championship experience have been crucial in guiding the Mavericks through high-pressure situations, giving them both confidence and composure.

A Rivalry Turned Mutual Respect

Thompson and Irving were once fierce rivals during the legendary Golden State Warriors–Cleveland Cavaliers battles that defined the NBA from 2015 to 2018. Those matchups produced unforgettable moments, including Irving’s clutch game-winning three-pointer in Game 7 of the 2016 NBA Finals — a shot that sealed Cleveland’s first-ever championship and ended Golden State’s historic 73-win season without a title.

Despite the intensity of those clashes, time has turned rivalry into respect. For players like Thompson, who understand how much work, sacrifice, and dedication it takes to excel at the highest level, admiration for a peer’s talent often lasts far longer than the competitive tension of the moment.

The Legacy of Kyrie Irving

Kyrie Irving’s career has been a mix of spectacular highs, championship triumphs, and complex narratives. He has won an NBA title, hit one of the most iconic shots in league history, made multiple All-Star appearances, and built a reputation as one of the most skilled guards the game has ever seen. Off the court, he has also shown a willingness to lead, mentor, and inspire.

Hearing someone of Thompson’s stature call Irving a player with “no weaknesses” reinforces the idea that his legacy is already secure. In an era full of talented guards, Irving stands out not just because of what he can do with the ball, but because of the rare combination of skill, confidence, and creativity that has defined his career.

Appreciating Greatness While It Lasts

As both Thompson and Irving move into the later stages of their NBA journeys, comments like these serve as a reminder for fans to appreciate greatness while it is still on the court. The league is constantly evolving, with new stars emerging each season, but players with Kyrie Irving’s blend of artistry and competitive fire do not come around often.

For Klay Thompson, who has faced nearly every elite guard of his era, the message is clear: Kyrie Irving is a living legend. His game, built without a visible flaw, challenges defenders, inspires teammates, and entertains fans. Whether remembered for his dazzling crossovers, impossible finishes, or historic clutch moments, Irving has carved out a permanent place among basketball’s all-time elite.

And perhaps the highest compliment of all comes from one of the greatest shooters and defenders of this generation: even Klay Thompson, a player who has spent years studying how to stop the best, cannot find a weakness in Kyrie Irving’s game.