The upcoming NBA season is fast approaching, and several key players will be looking to make an impact. LeBron James, now 39 years old, continues to defy the expectations of age. Sam Quinn offers a fitting summation: "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 was echoed by James' recent accolades, such as becoming the oldest player to win an MVP award in a competition featuring active NBA players and being named the most valuable player of the 2024 Olympics. Additionally, LeBron secured the MVP award in the NBA's inaugural In-Season Tournament.
Kevin Durant, now 35, continues to prove his prowess on the court. Last season, Durant averaged 27-6-5 on 41% from beyond the arc while playing 75 games. Brad Botkin provides insight into Durant's enduring talent: "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." He is currently ranked 9th in the Top 100 players list, a testament to his enduring impact on the game.
Stephen Curry, at 36 years old, is still a central figure for the Golden State Warriors. Ranked 6th in the Top 100, Curry's performance last season demonstrated his continued offensive mastery. Botkin states, "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, continues to be crucial for the Miami Heat. Ranked 22nd in the Top 100, Butler's influence is still very much felt when he's on the court, as the Heat outscored opponents by 1.7 points per 100 possessions with him last season. Botkin notes, "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?"
James Harden, at 35, is embarking on another chapter in his storied career with the Los Angeles Clippers. Harden is ranked 44th in the Top 100 and is now on his fourth team in as many years. Jack Maloney comments on Harden's journey: "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."
Paul George's move to Philadelphia marks another significant roster change, further shaking up the landscape of the league.
At the age of 35, DeMar DeRozan still commands attention as he is ranked 53rd in the Top 100.
Mike Conley, 36, remains a valuable asset for the Timberwolves, ranked 85th in the Top 100. As Jasmyn Wimbish suggests, "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, also 36, is ranked 88th in the Top 100 and symbolizes reliability on the court. Sam Quinn explains, "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."
Chris Paul, now 39, has transitioned into a mentorship role with the Spurs, notably guiding young star Victor Wembanyama.
At 38, Al Horford played a crucial role in Boston's championship run. Jasmyn Wimbish remarks, "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 NBA season approaches, the league showcases a blend of seasoned veterans and rising talent. Each player's journey, be it through seasoned experience or emerging dominance, promises another unforgettable season of basketball.