LeBron, Chris Paul Mark End of an Era in NBA Draft Classes

BREAKING: The NBA landscape is shifting as two of its legendary figures, LeBron James and Chris Paul, prepare for a pivotal showdown between the Los Angeles Lakers and LA Clippers on October 24, 2023. Both players, now 40 years old, are the last active stars from their respective draft classes, signaling a dramatic transition in the league.

URGENT UPDATE: Sources confirm that Chris Paul will retire at the end of this season, emphasizing the urgency of tonight’s matchup.

With a staggering combined total of over 60,000 points and 32 All-Star appearances, James and Paul have not only defined their eras but also formed the iconic “Banana Boat Crew.” They were drafted first and fourth overall in the 2003 and 2005 NBA drafts, respectively, and lead their classes in games played, minutes logged, points scored, and assists made.

As they step onto the court tonight, all eyes will be on the duo that has changed the game forever. But they are not alone in this farewell to the past; several other draft classes are dwindling in active players.

From the 2006 NBA Draft, only Kyle Lowry remains active. The veteran, currently with the Philadelphia 76ers, has played for five franchises since being drafted 24th overall. The absence of P.J. Tucker, who became a free agent after the 2024-25 season, leaves Lowry as the sole representative. This class also featured notable names like Rajon Rondo and Lamarcus Aldridge, who retired in October 2024.

The 2007 NBA Draft holds a bit more promise with four active stars, including Kevin Durant (No. 2), Al Horford (No. 3), Mike Conley (No. 4), and Jeff Green (No. 5). Durant, a two-time NBA champion and 14-time All-Star, continues to impress with an average of 26.6 points per game last season.

Meanwhile, the 2008 NBA Draft showcases a solid roster of talent, including Russell Westbrook and Kevin Love. Westbrook leads this group in minutes, games, points, and assists, while all but one player now competes in the Western Conference.

Fast forward to the 2009 NBA Draft, where stars like James Harden and Stephen Curry still dominate the scene. Harden recently made headlines with a stunning 55-point game, setting the Clippers’ single-game scoring record. Both he and Curry boast over 20,000 points, with a combined 30 All-Star appearances.

The 2010 NBA Draft saw Paul George emerge as the last active player from his class, following the retirement of John Wall in the 2025 offseason. George, currently with the 76ers, remains a vital player, nearing 20,000 points and surpassing 30,000 minutes.

As the NBA continues to evolve, the imminent retirements of these icons mark a significant change. Fans and analysts alike will be keenly watching how the league transitions into the next generation of talent.

WHAT TO WATCH: With the Lakers and Clippers clash tonight, expect a high-stakes game not just for the standings but as a heartfelt goodbye to two of basketball’s greatest players. Keep an eye on the evolving landscape of draft classes as more legends prepare to hang up their jerseys.