The Kyrie Irving disrespect has officially gone too far

In two years, the Dallas Mavericks made one of the biggest turnarounds in recent memory. During the 2022-23 season, Dallas missed the playoffs completely as they finished with the 11th-best record in the Western Conference. Injuries and team chemistry seemed to be the main issues, as the team decided to tank the final two games to have a better shot at keeping their top-10 protected first-round selection.

Fast forward to last season, and things changed. The Mavs made the NBA Finals for the first time in 13 years and advanced to the Western Conference Finals for the second time in three years.

One reason for the team's success was Kyrie Irving. The Mavs took a chance on Irving at the 2023 trade deadline, as critics questioned the trade. The gamble paid off, as he played a key role in helping the team advance to the Finals. He had a great series against the Minnesota Timberwolves averaging 27 points per game while shooting 49 percent from the field. He scored 36 points in a closing Game 5, as he converted 40 percent of his 3-point attempts.

Kyrie Irving disrespected in latest No. 2 options ranking

Yet despite his quick turnaround and success with Dallas, Irving still gets questioned about his role as the No. 2 option. Recently, Yahoo Sports released their ranking of the top No.2 options in the league. On top of the list was Anthony Davis, followed by Devin Booker and Jaylen Brown. The three players above Irving are where things get interesting.

The list rounded out the order with Bam Adebayo at four, Jamal Murray at five, and Domantas Sabonis at six. Irving then finished at seven. However, the list is just plain disrespectful. Besides Brown, all the other players failed to advance to the championship round.

If playoff success isn't enough, then here are some other things to think about. First, is Irving's leadership. Before the start of last season, Irving vowed to become a better leader and example for the team. He kept true to his promise, leading the team to the Finals. It was because of leadership, that Dallas' team chemistry was at an all-time high. He does a great job setting an example for the young guys, as he is always willing to lend a hand.

Irving's success with Luka Doncic is another reason he deserves to be higher. The Dallas duo averaged 59.2 points per game last season. Their connection is unstoppable, as Irving does a great job taking the pressure off Doncic. Together they make things easy for their teammates. They are both clutch shooters who share the same love of basketball.

However, if that isn't enough look at his accolades. Irving, Davis, Brown, and Murray are the only players on the list to host an NBA Championship. He ranks just below Davis for all-star appearances. Last season, Irving averaged more points per game than any player on the list besides Booker.

The problem is Irving is judged on his lackluster performance in the Finals, than his ability to help Dallas. The Mavs wouldn't be the team they are today if it were not for him. Irving changed the culture in Dallas and it's clear he is an excellent addition next to Doncic.

Irving has all of this season to prove why he is one of the top No. 2 options in the league. He and Luka could make history this season, as they have a new weapon in Klay Thompson.

Irving's journey to his second NBA championship begins next month when the team hosts a series of basketball activities.