Upcoming Clash: Lakers vs. Clippers
The upcoming clash between the Los Angeles Lakers and the LA Clippers features a fascinating subplot: two of the league’s oldest active athletes, LeBron James and Chris Paul, both aged 40. This duo, poised to join the ranks of Hall of Fame legends, has collectively amassed over 60,000 points and made 32 All-Star appearances. They also share a camaraderie that dates back to the infamous “Banana Boat” crew, representing a brief era of player friendship and unity in the league.
Draft Class Legacy
James was the top overall pick of the 2003 NBA Draft, selected first by the Cleveland Cavaliers, while Paul was chosen fourth by the then-New Orleans Hornets in 2005. As the only remaining players from their draft classes still competing, both superstars lead their respective cohorts in nearly every statistical category, including games played, minutes logged, points scored, and assists made.
A glance through other less-populous draft classes showcases how few players remain active from years past. For instance, the 2006 draft produced notable figures such as Kyle Lowry, pick No. 24, who has played for five franchises, including the Philadelphia 76ers, where he currently plays. This class also saw the likes of P.J. Tucker, who last played for the Clippers and Knicks in the 2024-25 season, before going unsigned as the following season commenced.
The 2006 draft also introduced future Lakers coach J.J. Redick, along with prominent players like Rajon Rondo, LaMarcus Aldridge, and Rudy Gay, the latter of whom retired in October 2024.
Notable Players from Subsequent Drafts
Moving up to the 2007 draft, the conversation shifts to stars like Kevin Durant (selected second overall) and Al Horford (third). Both are champions who have made significant impacts in their careers. Durant’s recent statistics are particularly noteworthy; he averaged 26.6 points, 6.0 rebounds, and 4.2 assists in the 2024-25 season, an effort that earned him another All-Star nod.
The 2008 draft class remains relevant well over a decade later, featuring standout players like Russell Westbrook and Kevin Love, each excelling in different aspects of the game. This class is intriguing because most of its members now play in the Western Conference, except for Eric Gordon, who is contributing for the 76ers. Westbrook stands out as the leader in several statistical categories like minutes, games, points, and assists, while DeAndre Jordan shines in rebounds with a career field goal percentage over 60%.
The 2009 draft introduced an impressive group of players including James Harden, Stephen Curry, DeMar DeRozan, and Jrue Holiday. Harden and Curry both enjoyed remarkable scoring success on November 14, with each posting 40-point games. Notably, Harden made history by setting the Clippers’ single-game scoring record with 55 points, a remarkable feat as he also holds the record for the Houston Rockets.
Lastly, in the 2010 draft class, Paul George remains the last active player, as many of his contemporaries have either retired or faded from the league. George has not only surpassed 30,000 minutes on the court but is also nearing the milestone of 20,000 points. The forward has earned nine All-Star selections and continues to be an influential player within the league today.
Conclusion
As the Lakers and Clippers prepare to face off, the legacies of LeBron James and Chris Paul shine brightly, reminding fans of the longevity and impact of their careers in a sport that constantly evolves.
