Urgent Update: LeBron and CP3 Lead Last Active NBA Draft Players

UPDATE: As the Los Angeles Lakers gear up to face the LA Clippers today, a significant moment looms over the match: both teams feature two of the oldest players in the NBA, LeBron James and Chris Paul, both aged 40. This meeting marks a poignant milestone, as these legends are the last active players from their respective NBA draft classes.

James, selected No. 1 overall by the Cleveland Cavaliers in 2003, and Paul, picked No. 4 by the then-New Orleans Hornets in 2005, have combined for over 60,000 points and 32 All-Star appearances. With talks emerging that CP3 may retire at season’s end, their presence in the league is even more significant.

Both players have dominated their drafts, leading in games, minutes, points, and assists. As they step onto the court today, fans and analysts alike are reminded of the incredible careers these athletes have had.

Looking beyond James and Paul, the 2006 NBA Draft features just one active player: Kyle Lowry (No. 24), who continues to contribute to the Philadelphia 76ers. Lowry has played for five franchises, including the Toronto Raptors, where he won an NBA championship in 2019. Other notable names from this class include JJ Redick and LaMarcus Aldridge, the latter of whom retired in October 2024.

The 2007 draft is slightly more populated with talent, featuring Kevin Durant (No. 2), Al Horford (No. 3), and Mike Conley (No. 4). All four active players from this draft were selected in the top five, with Durant still averaging 26.6 points per game this season, showcasing remarkable longevity.

Meanwhile, the 2008 class, which includes Russell Westbrook (No. 4) and Brook Lopez (No. 10), has shown resilience, with these players still making significant contributions. Interestingly, the majority of these players now compete in the Western Conference, with the exception of Eric Gordon, currently with the 76ers.

The 2009 draft remains a powerhouse with stars like James Harden (No. 3) and Stephen Curry (No. 7). Recently, both players scored over 40 points in a single game, marking a historic moment in the league. Harden’s recent 55-point game set a new single-game scoring record for the Clippers, emphasizing the enduring talent of this draft class.

Finally, Paul George (No. 10) represents the 2010 draft as the last active player from that year after John Wall retired earlier this season. George continues to be a vital player, nearing 20,000 points and surpassing 30,000 minutes in his career.

With the NBA landscape shifting and legends like James and Paul nearing retirement, fans are urged to appreciate these final moments of greatness. As the Lakers and Clippers clash today, all eyes will be on these two icons and the legacy they leave behind.

Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story as we monitor the impacts of these players on the game and their potential retirements in the upcoming seasons.