For over a decade, the NBA landscape has been dominated by the illustrious trio of Stephen Curry, LeBron James, and Kevin Durant. Their performances and influence have become synonymous with basketball greatness. However, the recent rankings suggest that their stronghold on the top echelons of the NBA is starting to weaken.
Stephen Curry's position has particularly been impacted. Previously ranked No. 3, Curry has now slipped to sixth place. Kevin Durant, who was ranked fifth last season, finds himself at No. 9. Meanwhile, LeBron James has settled into the eighth position. Reflecting on this trend, it seems apparent: "Their grip on those spots is slipping."
The recent performance of these legends in the NBA Playoffs further underscores this shift. Last season marked the first time since 2005 that none of these three players advanced to the second round. LeBron’s Lakers and Durant’s Suns managed only a solitary playoff win before being eliminated in the first round, while Curry’s Warriors didn't make the playoffs at all.
Despite these setbacks, their individual performances remain exceptional. LeBron James averaged 26 points, 7 rebounds, and 8 assists per game. Stephen Curry's resilience was on display as he won last year’s Clutch Player of the Year Award while playing 74 games. Kevin Durant played 75 games for the Suns, boasting a scoring average of more than 27 points per game, which stood as the fifth-highest in the league.
The emergence of new talent further complicates the scenario for this legendary trio. Victor Wembanyama, for example, occupies a notable No. 12 position, while Anthony Edwards clinched the tenth spot. Jalen Brunson, Deven Booker, and Ja Morant are ranked No. 13, No. 14, and No. 16, respectively. Zion Williamson finds himself at No. 21, and Tyrese Haliburton was performing at a top-five level before his injury in January.
This generational shift reaffirms the notion that "Enjoy these all-time greats at this level while you can," as their dominance may soon be usurped by the younger stars. "Because soon—perhaps very soon—their places among the upper echelon of the NBA will pass to the next stars up."
Curry’s Olympic Brilliance
One of the bright spots for Stephen Curry in recent times has been his exceptional performance at the 2024 Paris Olympics. His "heroics in the semifinals and gold medal game—with his iconic golden dagger—were unforgettable." This achievement has reinforced his standing as one of the game's greats, even as his ranking slips domestically.
What Lies Ahead?
The discussions surrounding Curry, Durant, and James now center on whether this year might be the last that all—or any—of these players remain among the NBA's Top 10. "This could well be the last year all, or any, of Steph, LeBron, and KD remain among the NBA's Top 10 players."
The NBA is witnessing a pivotal moment in its history, defined by the twilight of its current icons and the bright dawn of its future stars. The contributions of Curry, Durant, and James have been monumental in shaping the sport, and their legacies will forever be etched in the annals of basketball history. As a new generation rises, fans are urged to "enjoy these all-time greats at this level while you can."