The NBA season is fast approaching, and with it arrives a blend of fresh faces and seasoned veterans ready to make their mark. The spotlight shines brightly once again on LeBron James, a 39-year-old dynamo who continues to defy Father Time.
"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," says analyst Sam Quinn. "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."
Indeed, LeBron's accolades continue to grow. Recently, he became the oldest player to win an MVP award in a competition featuring active NBA players. Adding to his storied career, he was also named the most valuable player of the 2024 Olympics. The inaugural In-Season Tournament saw LeBron claiming victory and another MVP title, underscoring his ability to perform at the highest levels even as he approaches his fourth decade.
Kevin Durant: The Constant Force
At 35, Kevin Durant remains one of the elite players in the league. "Durant remains pretty close to the height of his powers," noted Brad Botkin. "Last season he averaged 27-6-5 on 41% 3-point shooting... Durant was the best isolation scorer in basketball last season." Durant's ranking at 9th in the Top 100 is a testament to his continued excellence. Over 75 games, his consistency was on full display, and fans eagerly await more of the same this season.
Stephen Curry: Ageless Wonder
Stephen Curry, a year Durant's senior at 36, continues to redefine what it means to age gracefully in the NBA. "Curry is still an offense unto himself with his inimitable movement and pure shot-making talent," Botkin said. "At 36 years old, it's hard to see where he's declined at all offensively." Ranked 6th in the Top 100, Curry will no doubt be an integral part of his team's aspirations this season.
Experiencing Veterans and New Beginnings
Jimmy Butler, aged 35, embodies the spirit of a player who saves his best for the grandest stages. Ranked 22nd in the Top 100, Butler's ability to elevate the Miami Heat during the postseason is well-documented. "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 pondered.
James Harden's journey sees him beginning a new chapter with the Los Angeles Clippers, marking his fourth team in as many years. At 35, Harden is tasked with shouldering a larger scoring load. "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." Jack Maloney observed. Harden's ranking at 44 in the Top 100 illustrates the challenge and potential he brings to his new squad.
Veteran Presence
Several other seasoned players continue to make significant impacts. Mike Conley, at 36, ranks 85 in the Top 100 and remains a vital asset to the Timberwolves. "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," says Jasmyn Wimbish.
Brook Lopez, another 36-year-old veteran, holds the 88th spot in the Top 100. Sam Quinn highlights his invaluable role: "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."
At 38, Al Horford continues to defy expectations with his performance for the Boston Celtics. "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," Wimbish commented.
New Horizons and Veteran Mentorship
Chris Paul, who also stands at 39, has taken on a mentorship role with the San Antonio Spurs, guiding young talent Victor Wembanyama. Paul's experience and wisdom are expected to be invaluable assets as the Spurs develop their young core.
As the NBA season kicks off, the excitement builds around the narratives of these aging warriors and their quest for glory. Each game will be an opportunity for them to push the boundaries of their storied careers and leave an indelible mark on the league.