One the best parts about a list like the top 20 players over 30 years old is that it will inherently include new players every year, those joining the ranks of the 30-year-olds across the association.
This year, though, there aren’t many who can be included in the top 20 of that age bracket. With mainstays like LeBron James and Kevin Durant still playing at elite levels, the only new 30-year-olds to make the list are Kyrie Irving and Rudy Gobert.
Welcome to the club, boys!
But where do they fall in the list of 20? After our Bryan Kalbrosky did the 23 best players younger than 23 years old, let’s flip it and look at the top players who are 30 or older.
1
LeBron James, Los Angeles Lakers (37)
The Lakers missing the playoffs last season spoke more to how bad the team was than how effective LeBron remains at age 37.
2
Kevin Durant, Brooklyn Nets (34)
KD was an early-season MVP candidate before injuries derailed his 2021-22.
3
Stephen Curry, Golden State Warriors (34)
The Finals MVP. All conversations about the top-five right now should include the Chef.
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4
Kawhi Leonard, Los Angeles Clippers (31)
A healthy Leonard puts the entire NBA on notice.
5
Jimmy Butler, Miami Heat (33)
Butler can kick his game to crazy heights when his team needs it most.
6
James Harden, Philadelphia 76ers (33)
Whether it’s scoring or playmaking, Harden gets it done with the ball in his hands.
7
Paul George, Los Angeles Clippers (32)
One of the smoothest players in the NBA, George does it on both ends.
8
Damian Lillard, Portland Trail Blazers (32)
With Dame Time back in Portland, the Blazers always have a chance to win.
9
Chris Paul, Phoenix Suns (37)
The point gawd remains one of the very best to do it at his position.
10
Kyrie Irving, Brooklyn Nets (30)
Irving’s ability on a basketball court has never been in question.
11
Rudy Gobert, Minnesota Timberwolves (30)
Gobert has been the single most dominant defensive presence in the NBA.
12
DeMar DeRozan, Chicago Bulls (33)
DeRozan has turned himself into an MVP candidate in Chicago.
13
Khris Middleton, Milwaukee Bucks (31)
Middleton has one of sweetest and most consistent shooting strokes out there.
14
Jrue Holiday, Milwaukee Bucks (32)
An excellent defender who could have joined the 50/40/90 club last season if he was a better free throw shooter.
15
CJ McCollum, New Orleans Pelicans (31)
New Orleans doesn’t make the playoffs last year without trading for McCollum.
16
Draymond Green, Golden State Warriors (32)
Green is still one of the NBA’s very best defenders.
17
Klay Thompson, Golden State Warriors (32)
Klay could end up the most disrespected player on this list if he further returns to his pre-injury form.
18
Al Horford, Boston Celtics (36)
Horford gets it done on both ends for the Celtics.
19
Kyle Lowry, Miami Heat (36)
A great floor general and leader with loads of playoff experience.
20
Russell Westbrook, Los Angeles Lakers (33)
Maybe not a great fit in LA, but Westbrook can still fill up a stat sheet.
