As the NBA season rapidly approaches, the league is abuzz with anticipation, particularly surrounding some of its biggest stars. The conversation centers predominantly around LeBron James, who, at 39, continues to defy the limitations of age. This year, LeBron not only became the oldest player to win an MVP award in competitions featuring active NBA players but was also named the most valuable player of the 2024 Olympics. His accolade collection now includes an MVP award from the NBA's inaugural In-Season Tournament, capping off a remarkable year.
Reflecting on LeBron’s influence, Sam Quinn noted, "Sure, it's unreasonable to expect the impending quadragenarian to be the NBA's best player over the course of an 82-game season anymore, but make no mistake, 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." This sentiment captures the awe with which his contemporaries and fans view him, as he continues to be a formidable presence on the court.
Meanwhile, Kevin Durant stands strong at 35, securing the 9th spot in the Top 100 rankings. Durant delivered a stellar performance last season, averaging 27-6-5 and shooting a commendable 41% from beyond the arc. His consistency saw him playing 75 games, demonstrating his resilience. "Durant remains pretty close to the height of his powers. Last season he averaged 27-6-5 on 41% 3-point shooting... Durant was the best isolation scorer in basketball last season," Brad Botkin succinctly summed up Durant’s enduring prowess.
Stephen Curry, at 36, is another veteran who refuses to yield to time. Ranked 6th in the Top 100, Curry's unique blend of movement and pure shot-making talent continues to make him an offensive powerhouse. As Botkin remarked, "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."
Jimmy Butler, now 35, is ranked 22 in the Top 100. Butler's impact on the Miami Heat was indisputable; the team outscored opponents by 1.7 points per 100 possessions when he was on the floor last season. Despite pacing himself during the regular season, he consistently rises to the occasion during playoffs. "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?" Botkin posed, pointing out the underlying team dynamics that could shape Butler's future performances.
James Harden, also 35, embarks on a new chapter with the Los Angeles Clippers. Ranked 44 in the Top 100, Harden is now on his fourth team in as many years. "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," stated Jack Maloney, underscoring the challenges that lie ahead for Harden.
Paul George's recent move to Philadelphia has also stirred discussions, while DeMar DeRozan at 35 continues to impress, ranked 53 in the Top 100. Meanwhile, Mike Conley, aged 36 and playing for the Timberwolves, ranks 85 in the Top 100. "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," Jasmyn Wimbish commented on Conley's crucial role.
Brook Lopez, another vital veteran, at 36, is ranked 88 in the Top 100. Lopez’s versatility is widely acknowledged. "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," opined Sam Quinn, emphasizing Lopez’s unique value.
At 39, Chris Paul takes on a mentorship role with the Spurs, particularly guiding Victor Wembanyama, while Al Horford, now 38 and fresh off a pivotal role in Boston's championship run, continues to be a critical asset. "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," remarked Jasmyn Wimbish.
With the upcoming NBA season on the horizon, the spotlight remains on these seasoned players. Their experience, combined with their enduring skills, continues to shape the narrative of a league where age is but a number, and excellence remains timeless.