We are approaching a new era in NBA history, since many veteran players are heading toward the finish line. LeBron James, Stephen Curry, Kevin Durant, Russell Westbrook, Chris Paul, and even Kawhi Leonard are scripting emotional epilogues during what's likely the next two to three seasons.
The new generation of stars, including Anthony Edwards, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, and Luka Doncic, will spearhead the next decade, and we are surely excited for that. But we won't forget what some of the NBA's icons have done throughout their careers, so let's honor them in our ranking of the players who will retire within the next two or three years.
LeBron James
Dec 21, 2024; Sacramento, California, USA; Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (23) smiles after his team scored against the Sacramento Kings during the fourth quarter at Golden 1 Center.
Dec 21, 2024; Sacramento, California, USA; Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (23) smiles after his team scored against the Sacramento Kings during the fourth quarter at Golden 1 Center.
Mandatory Credit: Ed Szczepanski-Imagn Images
NBA Career: 2004 - Present (22 seasons and counting)
Age: 40 Years, 192 Days
LeBron James could be set to ride off into the sunset at the end of the 2025-26 campaign. At 40, he just picked up his player option for that final season, hinting that his wife Savannah is nudging him toward retirement soon, and he himself admitted finishing his career in a Laker jersey "would be the plan".
He'll likely hang them up before an encore for 2026-27, closing a storied run that defied time itself. What he’s already achieved is beyond historic: 4× NBA champion, 4× MVP, Olympic gold medals, and the league’s all-time scoring record.
He’s led three franchises to titles, revolutionized player empowerment, and longevity. His final season isn’t just a farewell tour; it’s the closing chapter of a legend whose impact transcends basketball. Now, we won't be surprised if The King plays beyond next season, but we think this is it.
Stephen Curry
Golden State Warriors guard Stephen Curry (30) between plays against the Houston Rockets during the first quarter of game four of the 2025 NBA Playoffs first round at Chase Center.
Golden State Warriors guard Stephen Curry (30) between plays against the Houston Rockets during the first quarter of game four of the 2025 NBA Playoffs first round at Chase Center.
Mandatory Credit: Kelley L Cox-Imagn Images
NBA Career: 2010 - Present (16 seasons and counting)
Age: 37 Years, 118 Days
Stephen Curry has locked in the 2025-26 season after signing a one-year, $62.6 million extension that runs through 2027. At 37, and already an 11-time All-Star, four‑time champ, two‑time MVP, and the league’s greatest shooter, he’s the heartbeat of the Warriors’ dynasty.
His father Dell, emphasizes he “still loves the game” and isn’t close to walking away, though whispers from Kerr suggest the next two years might be the twilight of this era. Expect Curry to ride it out through 2026-27, chasing one last ring and figuring out life beyond the arc. With Draymond Green, Steve Kerr, and Jimmy Butler beside him, another ring is still never out of the question.
Kevin Durant
Phoenix Suns forward Kevin Durant (35) reacts against the Los Angeles Lakers in the second half at Crypto.com Arena.
Phoenix Suns forward Kevin Durant (35) reacts against the Los Angeles Lakers in the second half at Crypto.com Arena.
Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images
NBA Career: 2008 - Present (17 seasons and counting)
Age: 36 Years, 284 Days
Kevin Durant’s current deal expires in 2026, and word is he wants one last run, which is what he is getting with the Houston Rockets. Though he’s nearing 37, Durant admits retirement “creeps in” more often these days, but he has one more shot to win a ring over the next three seasons.
Still, KD loves the grind, and many fans expect him to push into his 40s. We predict that he’ll make it through 2026-27, possibly take one more short-term deal before calling it quits, before hitting 40. Look for a final bow by age 39, with potentially a third championship trophy in his cabinet.
Russell Westbrook
Denver Nuggets guard Russell Westbrook (4) looks on during the first quarter against the Detroit Pistons at Ball Arena.
Denver Nuggets guard Russell Westbrook (4) looks on during the first quarter against the Detroit Pistons at Ball Arena.
Mandatory Credit: Ron Chenoy-Imagn Images
NBA Career: 2009 - Present (17 seasons and counting)
Age: 36 Years, 240 Days
Russell Westbrook declined his player option for 2025-26, making him a free agent. He signed a two-year veteran’s minimum deal with Denver, but at 36, there’s a real chance that this marks the end. Rumors are already swirling that he’s called it quits after Denver’s playoff exit, but we see the triple-double maestro returning.
Expect him to slip into retirement after the 2025-26 season because there won't be many teams left in the NBA giving him a chance. Russ might opt for a shot overseas after this upcoming season, but his legacy is set regardless. He’ll walk away as a former MVP and triple-double machine whose intensity shaped a generation.
James Harden
Indianapolis, Indiana, USA; LA Clippers guard James Harden (1) dribbles the ball in the first half against the Indiana Pacers at Gainbridge Fieldhouse. Mandatory Credit: Trevor Ruszkowski-Imagn Images
Indianapolis, Indiana, USA; LA Clippers guard James Harden (1) dribbles the ball in the first half against the Indiana Pacers at Gainbridge Fieldhouse. Mandatory Credit: Trevor Ruszkowski-Imagn Images
Mandatory Credit: Trevor Ruszkowski-Imagn Images
NBA Career: 2010 - Present (16 seasons and counting)
Age: 35 Years, 318 Days
James Harden recently inked a two-year, $81.5 million deal (player option year ahead), signaling his intent to run it back in LA. And he’s made it clear he wants to retire a Clipper, and he almost certainly will.
With his age (35), decline arriving on the heels of this contract, expect him to ride through 2026-27, riding it out with his player option. After that? He’s Hall-of-Fameable, and likely done. We have to wait and see if The Beard can finally add a championship ring to his resume.
Kawhi Leonard
San Francisco, California, USA; LA Clippers forward Kawhi Leonard (2) brings the ball up court against the Golden State Warriors during the third quarter at Chase Center. Mandatory Credit: Robert Edwards-Imagn Images
San Francisco, California, USA; LA Clippers forward Kawhi Leonard (2) brings the ball up court against the Golden State Warriors during the third quarter at Chase Center. Mandatory Credit: Robert Edwards-Imagn Images
Mandatory Credit: Robert Edwards-Imagn Images
NBA Career: 2012 - Present (13 seasons and counting)
Age: 34 Years, 11 Days
Injury flags have haunted Kawhi Leonard for years. He sat out “indefinitely” for periods in 2024-25 with knee inflammation, and he can't seem to get healthy, no matter what happens. Veterans like Kendrick Perkins and Kevin Garnett suggest retirement is on the horizon, and we can't disagree with them.
If he pushes through, 2026-27 is likely his final dance (he will make $50,000,000 and $50,300,000 over the next two seasons). But a medically-induced retirement could come as early as next year, ending with two rings and a legacy of terrorizing playoff opponents. However, we have hope that The Claw will stick around for two more years.
Chris Paul
Apr 6, 2025; Portland, Oregon, USA; San Antonio Spurs point guard Chris Paul (3) looks on during the first half against the Portland Trail Blazers at Moda Center.
Apr 6, 2025; Portland, Oregon, USA; San Antonio Spurs point guard Chris Paul (3) looks on during the first half against the Portland Trail Blazers at Moda Center.
Mandatory Credit: Soobum Im-Imagn Images
NBA Career: 2006 - Present (20 seasons and counting)
Age: 40 Years, 65 Days
CP3 is sounding the final buzzer on a career that’s seen over 20,000 points and 10,000 assists; only he and LeBron have done that. Now 40 and a free agent, he’s confirmed he’ll play “at most a year” more, eyeing a farewell season during 2025-26.
Beyond elite court vision, he’s redefined what a modern point guard can influence, championing mentorship and leadership on every stop. Though an NBA title eluded him, he leaves behind a legacy of competition, craft, and clutch. Expect his final act to be a mentor-driven tour through contender territory, cementing his Hall of Fame berth.
Damian Lillard
Indianapolis, Indiana, USA; Milwaukee Bucks guard Damian Lillard (0) dribbles the ball while Indiana Pacers forward Aaron Nesmith (23) defends in the second half at Gainbridge Fieldhouse. Mandatory Credit: Trevor Ruszkowski-Imagn Images
Indianapolis, Indiana, USA; Milwaukee Bucks guard Damian Lillard (0) dribbles the ball while Indiana Pacers forward Aaron Nesmith (23) defends in the second half at Gainbridge Fieldhouse. Mandatory Credit: Trevor Ruszkowski-Imagn Images
Mandatory Credit: Trevor Ruszkowski-Imagn Images
NBA Career: 2013 - Present (13 seasons and counting)
Age: 34 Years, 360 Days
Despite a banner career, Damian Lillard's future hit turbulence in 2024-25, torn Achilles and a blood clot derailed his season, leading the Bucks to stretch his contract in July 2025. At nearly 35, he’s voiced confidence in playing until 39 or 40, but the brutal nature of his injury means 3 years might be his horizon.
If he rehabs fully, expect one more push, likely a 2027-28 exit. But if the body caves, his legacy remains intact: nine All-Stars and a clutch resume that transcends mere stats. We don't see the point guard playing past 2028, and if he can add three more All-Star selections, his Hall of Fame spot is all but guaranteed (if it isn't already).
Paul George
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA; Philadelphia 76ers forward Paul George (8) dribbles the ball against the New Orleans Pelicans during the first quarter at Wells Fargo Center. Mandatory Credit: Bill Streicher-Imagn Images
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA; Philadelphia 76ers forward Paul George (8) dribbles the ball against the New Orleans Pelicans during the first quarter at Wells Fargo Center. Mandatory Credit: Bill Streicher-Imagn Images
Mandatory Credit: Bill Streicher-Imagn Images
NBA Career: 2011 - Present (15 seasons and counting)
Age: 35 Years, 69 Days
Paul George signed a four-year, $212M max with the 76ers in July 2024, but injuries derailed his 2024-25 season, and there’s debate over how much gas he has left in the tank. At 35, he still has two guaranteed years, and likely one more as a key piece. But mounting wear-and-tear might force a 2026-27 exit, rather than pushing into his late-30s.
He’s a former Defensive Player of the Year contender, a six-time All-NBA, and perennial All-Star. Though he’s yet to win a ring, PG has consistently been a two-way lethal weapon. Expect the next two years to define his final phase, bench role, mentoring, and one last deep playoff run or fade-out.
DeMar DeRozan
Mar 29, 2025; Orlando, Florida, USA; Sacramento Kings guard/forward DeMar DeRozan (10) dribbles the ball against the Orlando Magic in the first quarter at Kia Center. Mandatory Credit: Jeremy Reper-Imagn Images
Mar 29, 2025; Orlando, Florida, USA; Sacramento Kings guard/forward DeMar DeRozan (10) dribbles the ball against the Orlando Magic in the first quarter at Kia Center. Mandatory Credit: Jeremy Reper-Imagn Images
Mandatory Credit: Jeremy Reper-Imagn Images
NBA Career: 2010 - Present (16 seasons and counting)
Age: 35 Years, 337 Days
DeMar DeRozan is midway through a lucrative three-year deal with Sacramento (through 2026-27), entering his late 30s by the end (turning 36 in August). He’s adamant about playing "as long as I can" thanks to an alcohol-free lifestyle and rigorous care. Watch for his final year, 2026-27, as a farewell tour, possibly ending back in Toronto on a ceremonial one-day contract.
A mid-range maestro and multi-time All-Star, DeRozan has scored over 25,000 career points. His closing act? A steady veteran supporting up-and-comers, maybe mentoring in Canada, where his legacy lives on.
Jrue Holiday
Boston, Massachusetts, USA; Boston Celtics guard Jrue Holiday (4) waits for game action to resume during the second half against the Minnesota Timberwolves at TD Garden
Boston, Massachusetts, USA; Boston Celtics guard Jrue Holiday (4) waits for game action to resume during the second half against the Minnesota Timberwolves at TD Garden.
Boston, Massachusetts, USA; Boston Celtics guard Jrue Holiday (4) waits for game action to resume during the second half against the Minnesota Timberwolves at TD Garden.
NBA Career: 2010 - Present (16 seasons and counting)
Age: 35 Years, 28 Days
Jrue is midway through a 4-year, $134M deal, set to expire after 2027-28, but has signaled strong interest in hanging it up once the contract ends, likely in 2028 at age 38-39. However, his recent trade (Boston to Portland) and his expressed willingness to continue complicates the narrative, so his final season may land in Portland or elsewhere in 2027-28.
Already a 2× NBA champ (Milwaukee 2021, Boston 2024), 6× All‑Defensive Team, and a high-IQ leader, Holiday’s final years will cement his reputation as one of the most committed two-way guards of his generation. Expect him to end quietly, of his own choosing; on his terms, not media hype.
Mike Conley
Mike Conley, Minnesota Timberwolves
Credit: Brad Rempel-Imagn Images
NBA Career: 2008 - Present (18 seasons and counting)
Age: 37 Years, 272 Days
Conley, now 37, has explicitly stated he wants to play at least two more seasons to hit a 20-year milestone, likely retiring after 2026-27. Though minutes are declining, he's still a valuable mentor in Minnesota, reportedly "having a blast" while guiding young talent.
A model of professionalism with four Sportsmanship and Teammate awards, Conley leaves a legacy of consistency and integrity. His final act promises to be one of quiet leadership, possibly capped by a deep playoff run before he bows out in ’27.
Kevin Love
Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Miami Heat forward Kevin Love (42) against the Phoenix Suns at Footprint Center. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports
Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Miami Heat forward Kevin Love (42) against the Phoenix Suns at Footprint Center. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports
Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports
NBA Career: 2007 - Present (17 seasons and counting)
Age: 36 Years, 306 Days
Kevin Love has confirmed he’ll return for 2025-26, declining retirement talk for now. However, perhaps the big man didn't expect to be suiting up for the Utah Jazz. At 36 going on 37, he’s likely to play through the 2026-27 season at most, especially with a cameo-level role, and the Cavs are planning to retire his jersey.
A champion (2016), two-time NBA finalist, All-Star, and pioneer in mental health advocacy, Love will wrap up his career as a beloved veteran; his last seasons devoted to on-court support and off-court philanthropy.
Kyle Lowry
Jan 31, 2025; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA; Philadelphia 76ers guard Kyle Lowry (7) shoots the ball against the Denver Nuggets in the third quarter at Wells Fargo Center. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Ross-Imagn Images
Jan 31, 2025; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA; Philadelphia 76ers guard Kyle Lowry (7) shoots the ball against the Denver Nuggets in the third quarter at Wells Fargo Center. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Ross-Imagn Images
Mandatory Credit: Kyle Ross-Imagn Images
NBA Career: 2007 - Present (19 seasons and counting)
Age: 39 Years, 107 Days
Kyle Lowry just signed a one-year deal for his 20th season with the Philadelphia 76ers, making 2025-26 almost certainly his last. A vocal leader blossoming into mentorship, he's said he’ll retire as a Toronto Raptor, likely finishing 2025-26 and then signing a ceremonial one-day contract with Toronto.
Lowry’s legacy is championship DNA: 2019 ring, 6-time All-Star, and a Philly hometown hero for one last run. Expect a warm retirement ride, concluding a gritty, heart-and-hustle career.
Brook Lopez
Milwaukee Bucks center Brook Lopez (11) against the Phoenix Suns at Footprint Center.
Milwaukee Bucks center Brook Lopez (11) against the Phoenix Suns at Footprint Center.
Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
NBA Career: 2009 - Present (17 seasons and counting)
Age: 37 Years, 100 Days
At 37, Brook Lopez has moved from Milwaukee to the LA Clippers on a two-year deal in 2025-26, clearly looking for one final contract before calling it quits. His role will pivot to backup center behind younger starters in L.A., likely spanning two seasons, 2025–26 and 2026–27, before he retires aged 39.
A former All-Star with elite rim protection and three-point touch, Lopez will exit on a high note, cherished for adapting his game with age and playing a key veteran role on a playoff-caliber team.
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