When you think of Boston Celtics star point guard Kyrie Irving, defense is never the first thing that comes to anyone's mind. People often think about Irving's scoring ability, finishing prowess, and his magician-like ball handling skills which make him one of the best players in the NBA.

Kyrie Irving is a smart guy. After all, he did go to Duke. The five-time All-Star is aware that people consider him a below average defender, but he wants to change that narrative, not just for this season, but for the next eight to 10 years.

Kyrie Irving has averaged 1.3 steals per game since being drafted No. 1 overall back in 2011. At 6-foot-3, 193 pounds, Irving should be able to body some of these point guards and make it hard for them to get to the rim.

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The problem with Irving, at least in his early days, is that he would coast on defense so he could save his energy for the offensive end. It's something a lot of high volume scorers do. They don't want to get too tired on defense because then their shot will be flat.

The Celtics are the favorites to win the Eastern Conference this season and the team has championship goals. If Boston wants to defeat the Golden State Warriors, should the two teams meet in the NBA Finals, Kyrie Irving will have to play sound defense on Stephen Curry. Obviously, that's easier said than done, but Irving has history with Curry. The two stars have faced off in the Finals before.

These are the type of comments you like to hear from Kyrie Irving. Becoming a leader is recognizing what aspects of your game you need to improve in, and it's good to see Irving taking accountability.