As the NBA season approaches, the league's landscape is being shaped by the performances and narratives of its most iconic players. LeBron James, at 39 years old, continues to defy age-related expectations.
LeBron James: Defying Age
Recently, LeBron became the oldest player to secure an MVP award in a competition with active NBA stars. His dominance extended to the international stage as well, being named the most valuable player of the 2024 Olympics. Notably, he also triumphed as the MVP in the NBA's inaugural In-Season Tournament. His continued influence is unparalleled. As Sam Quinn remarked, "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."
Kevin Durant: Still a Scoring Machine
Kevin Durant, 35, is another seasoned star who's maintained his elite performance. Ranked 9th in the Top 100, Durant averaged an impressive 27-6-5 on 41% from beyond the arc last season, playing in 75 games. Brad Botkin observed, "Durant remains pretty close to the height of his powers... Durant was the best isolation scorer in basketball last season."
The Steady Brilliance of Stephen Curry
Stephen Curry, at 36 years old and ranked 6th in the Top 100, also showcases a remarkable blend of longevity and brilliance. Curry's unique offensive prowess remains as potent as ever. Botkin again encapsulates Curry's impact: "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: The Playoff Performer
Jimmy Butler, aged 35 and ranked 22nd, continues to be a pivotal force for the Miami Heat. Last season, the Heat outscored opponents by 1.7 points per 100 possessions when Butler was on the floor. Butler is renowned for pacing himself during the regular season to conserve energy for the playoffs. Brad Botkin notes, "Butler is what he is: A great player who paces himself in the regular season in order to produce superstar postseason stretches." However, questions loom regarding the Heat's ability to provide a competitive stage for Butler's playoff heroics.
James Harden: A New Chapter
James Harden, aged 35 and now with the Los Angeles Clippers, is on his fourth team in as many years. Ranked 44th, Harden faces the challenge of revitalizing his scoring prowess to elevate the Clippers' standing in the Western Conference. Jack Maloney voices the expectations: "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."
Veteran Leadership in the NBA
The NBA is also witnessing valuable contributions from seasoned veterans like Chris Paul and Al Horford. Paul, at 39, now serves as a veteran mentor for Spurs' rookie sensation Victor Wembanyama. Meanwhile, 38-year-old Horford played a crucial role in Boston's championship run. Jasmyn Wimbish reflects on Horford's significance, "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."
Timberwolves’ Stability with Mike Conley
Mike Conley, aged 36 and ranked 85th, continues to provide stability and leadership for the Timberwolves. As one of the oldest players in the league, Conley's experience is invaluable. Wimbish underscores this aspect: "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."
Brook Lopez: Defensive Anchorman
Brook Lopez, also 36 and ranked 88th, remains an integral part of his team. His ability to contribute on both ends of the floor is highly regarded. Sam Quinn notes, "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."
As the new NBA season dawns, these players, through their enduring skills and leadership, exemplify the rich tapestry of talent and experience that continues to captivate fans and shape the future of the league.