Injuries and age are the biggest enemies of NBA players. Overcoming the impact of injuries and age to maintain peak performance is the most challenging task. In the past, NBA games had a higher defensive intensity, and many players would experience a rapid decline in their statistics and abilities after reaching the age of 35, which was inevitable. However, with the decrease in game intensity, improvements in medical conditions, and better load management, many players are now able to maintain peak statistics and dominance even after the age of 35. Among the three superstar players—LeBron James, Kevin Durant, and Stephen Curry—who has shown the most noticeable decline this season?
LeBron James, the number one draft pick in 2003, has been playing from 2003 to 2025 and has turned 40 years old. Since he turned 36, many fans have said that James is declining, but his statistics and abilities have remained impressive and powerful each year. This season, at the age of 40, what are his statistics? According to NBA statistics, LeBron James is averaging 23.8 points + 7.7 rebounds + 8.8 assists + 0.8 steals + 0.5 blocks per game, with a field goal percentage of 50.7%, a three-point percentage of 38.6%, and a free throw percentage of 76.9%.
James' average of 23+7+8 this season may not be particularly outstanding, but it is very balanced and comprehensive, and his efficiency remains at the peak level of his career. It's important to note that James is 40 years old, ten years older than Jokic and Antetokounmpo, yet he is still putting up such statistics and efficiency, which is quite remarkable. Additionally, this season, James has had several standout performances, including a triple-double with 39 points, 10 rebounds, 11 assists, 2 steals, and 3 blocks in a single game, as well as another triple-double with 35 points, 14 rebounds, 12 assists, and 2 steals. James has recorded four 30+ triple-doubles this season, tying him for first in the league with Jokic.
Kevin Durant, the second overall pick in 2007, is 36 years old this season and is averaging 27.2 points + 6.3 rebounds + 4.0 assists + 0.7 steals + 1.3 blocks per game, with a field goal percentage of 52.0%, a three-point percentage of 40.3%, and a free throw percentage of 84.0%. It is clear that Durant's statistics have not declined this season; they remain at a high level. If there is any shortcoming to mention, it is that the Suns' record this season is indeed poor: 17 wins and 19 losses, ranking 12th in the West, and currently struggling to even qualify for the play-in tournament. Will the trio of Durant, Booker, and Beal break up?
Stephen Curry, the 7th pick in the 2009 draft, is also 36 years old and has shown a more noticeable decline in his statistics this season. Curry is averaging 22.6 points + 5.1 rebounds + 6.1 assists + 1.2 steals + 0.5 blocks per game, with a field goal percentage of 44.6%, a three-point percentage of 41.1%, and a free throw percentage of 93.2%. Compared to last season, Curry's average scoring has dropped by 4.6 points, and his field goal percentage has also slightly decreased. However, Curry's three-point shooting ability remains at the peak level of his career.
Among the three superstars—James, Durant, and Curry—Durant's personal statistics have not declined, James has basically maintained his level, and Curry has seen a slight drop in his average scoring, but the decline is not significant. Although the trio of James, Durant, and Curry are not the strongest active players in the league (Jokic and Antetokounmpo are stronger), their influence and appeal to fans are still the strongest in the entire league.
