The upcoming NBA season holds a unique blend of anticipation and nostalgia, as the league's elder statesmen continue to maintain a formidable presence on the court. At the forefront stands LeBron James, unfazed by the march of time, poised to inspire fear in opponents even as he approaches 40 years old. Described as the player who may no longer dominate an 82-game season but remains a formidable presence in smaller bursts, James defies conventional expectations of aging athletes.
Recently, James achieved a remarkable milestone by becoming the oldest player to win an MVP award in a competition featuring active NBA players. Additionally, his exceptional performance clinched him the MVP title in the NBA’s inaugural In-Season Tournament. His prowess extended beyond the NBA, as he was named the Most Valuable Player of the 2024 Olympics, highlighting his global impact.
James is not the only veteran making headlines. Kevin Durant, 35, continues to exhibit his mettle. Ranked 9th in the Top 100, Durant's stats speak volumes: an average of 27 points, 6 rebounds, and 5 assists with a 41% shooting accuracy from beyond the arc last season. Remarkably, he played 75 games, showcasing durability and skill. Brad Botkin notes Durant's proficiency, stating, "Durant remains pretty close to the height of his powers... Durant was the best isolation scorer in basketball last season."
Stephen Curry, at 36, also remains a pivotal figure in the league. Ranked 6th in the Top 100, Curry’s influence on the court is undeniable. As Botkin articulates, "Curry is still an offense unto himself with his inimitable movement and pure shot-making talent. At 36 years old, it's hard to see where he's declined at all offensively." Curry continues to be a lynchpin for his team's strategies and offensive prowess.
Jimmy Butler, another 35-year-old veteran, finds himself ranked 22nd. Butler's strategic pacing during the regular season allows him to unleash superstar performances during the playoffs, a dynamic that Brad Botkin succinctly encapsulated: "Butler is what he is: A great player who paces himself in the regular season in order to produce superstar postseason stretches... The question is: Are the Heat still good enough to give Butler the opportunity to shift into his playoff gear?" The Miami Heat, benefiting from Butler's leadership, outscored opponents by 1.7 points per 100 possessions when he was on the floor last season.
James Harden's journey continues its unpredictable arc, now with the Los Angeles Clippers, marking his fourth team in as many years. Currently 35 and ranked 44th, Harden faces a new challenge. Jack Maloney remarks, "Harden's basketball odyssey took him to Los Angeles last season... Harden will need to take on a bigger scoring burden than he has in recent years in order for the Clippers to stay relevant in the Western Conference."
Meanwhile, Paul George has made a significant move to Philadelphia, adding another layer of intrigue to the upcoming season. DeMar DeRozan, 35, finds himself ranked 53rd, while Mike Conley, at 36, and Brook Lopez, also 36, hold the 85th and 88th spots respectively. Conley, playing for the Timberwolves, remains one of the league’s most valuable veterans. As Jasmyn Wimbish notes, "Conley will enter the upcoming season as one of the oldest players in the league, but he's also still one of the most valuable veterans a young team -- like the Timberwolves -- could have."
Lopez, celebrated for his dual-end impact, draws praise from Sam Quinn: "Everyone wants a Brook Lopez... there simply aren't other centers who take nothing off of the floor on either end while adding quite a bit on both." His contributions continue to elevate his team’s performance, making him an indispensable asset.
Chris Paul, at 39, transitions into a mentorship role with the Spurs, guiding the young phenom Victor Wembanyama. This phase of Paul's career underscores the invaluable experience he brings, shaping the next generation of talents. Al Horford, 38, despite playing a crucial role in Boston's championship run, surprisingly did not make the Top 100 list -- an oversight highlighted by Jasmyn Wimbish's commentary on the immense talent pool in the NBA.
As the NBA season looms, the enduring tenacity of these veterans adds depth and excitement to the narrative. Their continued excellence, resilience, and evolution not only inspire their teammates but also captivate fans, reminding us that age is but a number in the world of sports.