I think it's a totally legit statement. The music industry, by nature, promotes 'Best'. Best Album, Best New Artist, Best Song, Best This & That. As long as we realize 'best' is very subjective. What consitutes 'best'? Most album sales? Most money earned? Fastest picking? Most melodic? Song writing genius?
I like Bonamassa's songwriting and listen when I want to hear blues pushed into rock. I like listening to Satriani rock melodies just like I listened to the melodic licks of Atlanta Rhythm Section, Steely Dan or Allman Brothers decades ago. Carlos Santana, Eddie Van Halen, Albert Lee, Alvin Lee, BB King, Chet Atkins, Ry Cooder... the list of greats is long.
If we gauged it by monetary success or popularity then the list would be different. 99 out 100 people you quiz have never even heard of Govan whereas someone like Noel Gallagher, who by his own admission is a mediocre guitarist at best, is a songwriting fool having made a gazillion dollars playing guitar and signing. As have Bob Dylan or Willie Nelson.
We live in a lucky time for guitarist. Each one brings you to a certain place, mood or purpose.
I will hum a Stevie Ray Vaughn song. I don't hum Govan tunes. I listen to Guthrie when I want to be blown away.