UPDATE: In a significant moment for the NBA, LeBron James and Chris Paul, both 40 years old, are set to face off in a pivotal matchup between the Los Angeles Lakers and LA Clippers on Tuesday. This game marks the twilight of their storied careers, with both players being the final active representatives from their respective draft classes.
As the Lakers and Clippers prepare to battle, fans are reminded of the incredible journey of these two legends, who have combined for over 60,000 points and an astounding 32 All-Star appearances. Their legacy is highlighted as they are the last active players from the 2003 and 2005 NBA Drafts, respectively.
James was selected first overall by the Cleveland Cavaliers in 2003, while Paul was picked fourth by the then-New Orleans Hornets in 2005. Both have excelled in every measurable statistic, making them the leaders in games, minutes, points, and assists from their draft years.
This matchup is not just about the game; it symbolizes the end of an era. As Shams Charania of The Athletic reports, Paul is expected to retire at the end of this season, further cementing this moment in NBA history.
Looking at other draft classes, the 2006 NBA Draft features Kyle Lowry, the only active player remaining from that year, currently playing for the Philadelphia 76ers. Lowry has had a remarkable career spanning five franchises, including a championship win with the Toronto Raptors in 2019.
The 2007 draft class includes notable players like Kevin Durant and Al Horford, both of whom are still active and have made significant impacts in the league. Durant, a 14-time All-Star, continues to perform at an elite level, averaging 26.6 points in the last season.
Meanwhile, the 2008 draft class boasts players such as Russell Westbrook and Brook Lopez, who continue to contribute meaningfully to their teams. Westbrook leads the group in various stats, while Lopez and Nicolas Batum are now teammates on the Clippers.
In the 2009 class, superstars like James Harden and Stephen Curry are still lighting up the scoreboard. Just last week, Harden scored 55 points for the Clippers, setting a new franchise record, making him the first NBA player to hold single-game scoring records for two teams simultaneously.
Lastly, the 2010 draft features Paul George as the last active player, following the retirement of John Wall earlier this offseason. George, a nine-time All-Star, is still a vital contributor to the NBA landscape.
This matchup between the Lakers and Clippers is not just another game; it’s a chance to celebrate the extraordinary careers of James and Paul. As NBA fans prepare for this historic encounter, the emotional weight of their potential final showdown is palpable.
What happens next? As the season progresses, the focus will shift to how these legends finish their careers and what legacy they leave behind for future generations. Stay tuned for updates as this story unfolds and becomes a defining moment for basketball history.