The NBA season is fast approaching, and as the anticipation builds, the spotlight shines brightly on some of the league’s most prominent players. Veteran superstars like LeBron James, Kevin Durant, and Stephen Curry are once again set to capture the hearts and minds of basketball fans worldwide.
LeBron James: Defying Father Time
LeBron James, at 39 years old, continues to astonish fans and analysts alike. Despite approaching quadragenarian status, James never ceases to achieve remarkable milestones. Most recently, he became the oldest player to win an MVP award in a competition among active NBA players, also adding the accolade of being named the most valuable player of the 2024 Olympics. His exploits do not end there; James also secured the MVP award in the NBA's inaugural In-Season Tournament, further cementing his legacy.
The inexorable march of time may limit his role over an 82-game season, but as Sam Quinn aptly notes, “in a smaller sample, there still might not be a single player in all of basketball that inspires more fear in his opponents than LeBron James.” It's a sentiment shared by many who have seen the King at work during those crucial, game-defining moments.
Kevin Durant: Still at the Pinnacle
At 35, Kevin Durant remains a formidable force in the NBA. Ranked ninth in the Top 100, Durant's performance last season was nothing short of stellar. Averaging 27 points, 6 rebounds, and 5 assists per game with an impressive 41% from beyond the arc, he played 75 games, demonstrating both skill and durability.
“Durant remains pretty close to the height of his powers,” says Brad Botkin. Highlighting Durant's prowess, he adds, “Durant was the best isolation scorer in basketball last season.” Such consistency ensures that Durant is an indispensable asset to any team and a nightmare for any defense.
Stephen Curry: Ageless Wonder
Stephen Curry, now 36, is another veteran who continues to defy expectations. Ranked sixth in the Top 100, Curry’s offensive capabilities show no signs of decline. Renowned for his unmatched movement and pure shot-making talent, Curry remains a pivotal figure in the league.
Botkin’s analysis encapsulates Curry’s enduring greatness: “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.” Indeed, Curry’s influence on the court, both as a scorer and a facilitator, remains profound.
Jimmy Butler: Playoff Performer
Jimmy Butler, aged 35, continues to serve as the cornerstone for the Miami Heat, ranked 22nd in the Top 100. The Heat outscored opponents by 1.7 points per 100 possessions when Butler was on the floor last season, underscoring his significant impact.
Brad Botkin succinctly describes Butler’s unique ability: “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?” This remains one of the pivotal questions as the new season looms.
James Harden: A New Chapter in Los Angeles
James Harden, another stalwart at 35, has had a turbulent few years, now with the Los Angeles Clippers; his fourth team in as many years. Ranked 44th in the Top 100, Harden’s journey has been one of adaptation and resilience.
Jack Maloney highlights the challenges ahead: “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.” Harden’s ability to adjust and deliver will be critical for the Clippers’ aspirations.
Veterans Making Their Mark
Paul George’s move to Philadelphia marks another significant shift in the league’s landscape, while DeMar DeRozan, at 35, holds onto his top ranking at 53. Mike Conley, aged 36 and ranked 85th, plays a vital role for the Timberwolves, bringing invaluable experience to the young team. Jasmyn Wimbish acknowledges Conley’s importance, stating, “he's still one of the most valuable veterans a young team -- like the Timberwolves -- could have.”
Similarly, Brook Lopez, at 36, remains a key figure, ranking 88th. Sam Quinn’s evaluation is telling: “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.”
The Unsung Hero: Al Horford
Al Horford, though not in the Top 100, played a crucial role in Boston's championship run last season. At 38, his contribution cannot be overstated. Wimbish’s reflection on Horford’s omission from the Top 100 captures this sentiment, “I'm actually quite surprised Horford didn't make our Top 100, but it just shows how much talent is in the NBA… he was one of the most important players on the floor for the Celtics.”
As the new NBA season approaches, these veterans continue to shape the game, bringing experience, skill, and an indomitable spirit that inspires both teammates and fans alike. With such seasoned talents ready to compete, the excitement and drama of the upcoming season promise to be unparalleled.