In the fast-paced, physically demanding world of professional basketball, durability is a coveted attribute that sets players apart. It’s a testament to their physicality, toughness and ability to withstand the rigors of an NBA season. In this comprehensive article, we’ll embark on a journey through the NBA draft since 2000 to identify and honor the most durable players at each level. These exceptional individuals have shown a remarkable ability to stay healthy and perform for their teams, consistently defying the odds and staying on the field year after year.
From budding rookies with impressive stamina to seasoned veterans who have stood the test of time, we pay homage to the NBA’s iron men. We focus on players who have overcome injury setbacks, overcome tough schedules, and played day and night for their teams. Their commitment to maintaining optimal physical condition, their ability to bounce back from injuries and their unwavering dedication to the game have made them valuable assets for their respective teams.
We’ll explore the careers of these enduring NBA players, tracing their trajectories from draft day to the present. We’ll be looking at their impact on the team, both on the pitch and in the locker room, as their availability and reliability are key factors in a team’s success. From setting records and amassing impressive numbers to providing leadership and consistency, these players left an indelible mark on the NBA scene.
The shortest duration is two seasons, meaning players from the 2022 draft class won’t be considered. Without further ado, here are the most durable NBA players in each draft class since 2000.
2000 Draft Class – Jamal Crawford (1,327 games played)
Image credit: David Richard – USA TODAY Sports
Career stats: 14.6 points, 2.2 rebounds, 3.4 assists, 0.9 points, 0.2 rebounds
Jamal Crawford’s career since entering the NBA has been marked by his scoring prowess, offensive versatility and lasting impact. Known for his fluid shooting and creative scoring moves, Crawford has been a reliable scorer throughout his career. His ability to create his own shots and contribute off the bench has made him a valuable asset for multiple teams. Crawford also impressed teammates and fans with his positive attitude, professionalism and guidance. His stamina and love of the game allowed him to enjoy a lengthy career that made him a respected figure in the NBA, playing a total of 1,327 games over 20 seasons.
2001 Draft Class – Joe Johnson (1,277 games played)
Image credit: Howard Smith – USA TODAY Sports
Career stats: 16.0 points, 4.0 rebounds, 3.9 assists, 0.8 assists, 0.2 assists
Joe Johnson’s NBA career has been marked by scoring prowess, offensive versatility and longevity. Known as “Iso Joe,” Johnson has been a consistent scoring threat throughout his career, displaying his All-Star knack for creating his own shot and scoring at various spots on the court. His size, ball-handling skills and shooting touch make him a problem for defenders. Johnson’s ability to contribute to multiple teams and adapt to different roles, including being a primary scorer or a reliable support, shows his versatility. A seven-time All-Star, Johnson’s impact and longevity in the league cemented his status as one of the most accomplished players in the NBA’s 2001 draft class.
2002 Draft Class – Tayshaun Prince (1,017 games played)
Image credit: Tim Fuller-USA TODAY Sports
Career stats: 11.1 PPG, 4.3 RPG, 2.4 APG, 0.6 SPG, 0.5 BPG
Tayshaun Prince’s career since entering the NBA has been marked by his defensive prowess, versatility and contributions to championship lineups, including the 2004 Detroit Pistons title. Known for his extraordinary size and defensive skills, Prince is a key player on the defensive end, often guarding the opposing team’s best player. Prince’s talent for disrupting passing lanes and fighting shots makes him a valuable asset. Additionally, Prince has shown offensive versatility through his scoring ability, 3-point shooting and playmaker ability. His contributions have been critical to the success of the Detroit Pistons, including the 2004 NBA Championship. Amazingly, Prince also played 14 more seasons totaling 1,017 games.
2003 Draft Class – LeBron James (1,421 games played)
Image credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports
Career stats: 27.2 PPG, 7.5 RPG, 7.3 APG, 1.5 SPG, 0.8 BPG
Not surprisingly, LeBron James was the most durable player in the 2003 NBA Draft. The King, who has played more than 1,400 games in his career, is about to enter his 21st NBA season, which is incomprehensible. James has had an incredible career with three different teams on his resume, four NBA Championships, four Finals MVPs and four MVP awards. James has always done what is best for his career, which is why he has lasted so long while still being a top-10 player in the world. James already broke all-time scoring records last season, and as he continues to play, more may be broken.
2004 Draft Class – Dwight Howard (1,242 games played)
Image credit: Kim Klement – USA TODAY Sports
Career stats: 15.7 points, 11.8 rebounds, 1.3 assists, 0.9 assists, 1.8 assists
Dwight Howard’s career since entering the NBA has been marked by his dominance as a defensive force and dominant rebounder. Known for his incredible athleticism, shot-blocking and rebounding prowess, Howard has established himself as one of the premier big men in the league. The three-time Defensive Player of the Year in his prime could protect the paint, change shots and control the glass at superstar levels. Additionally, Howard’s physicality and strength allow him to be an excellent finisher around the rim. Despite his ups and downs in his career, his impact as a perennial All-Star and three-time Defensive Player of the Year solidified his status as one of the most impactful centers of his generation and a first-round Hall of Fame voter.
2005 Draft Class – Chris Paul (1,214 games played)
Career stats: 17.9 points, 4.5 rebounds, 9.5 assists, 2.1 assists, 0.2 rebounds
Image credit: Joe Camporeale-USA TODAY Sports
Chris Paul has been called one of the greatest floor generals of this generation, consistently proving he can control the game and make his teammates better. His court vision, passing ability and decision-making make him an excellent playmaker. Paul’s ability to orchestrate offenses and create scoring opportunities for himself and others has made him a perennial All-Star. Even today, Paul remains a vital part of championship-contending teams, which is why the 12-time All-Star will be a first-round Hall of Famer voting player and, if he wins the title, a top-five point guard in history.
2006 Draft Class – Rudy Gay (1,120 games played)
Career stats: 15.8 points, 5.6 rebounds, 2.0 assists, 1.1 assists, 0.7 assists
Image credit: Jamie Sabau-USA TODAY Sports
Rudy Gay’s career since entering the NBA has been characterized by scoring ability, versatility, and longevity. Known for his fluid offense and scoring versatility, Gay has been a reliable scorer throughout his career. Gay’s ability to score from various spots on the court, whether attacking the rim or shooting mid-range shots, makes him an invaluable offensive weapon. Gay’s athleticism and size also make him a solid defender. Despite a few injuries throughout his career, he showed resilience and maintained a high level of performance, which is why he spent 17 seasons in the league.
2007 Draft Class – Thaddeus Young (1,139 games played)
Image credit: Vincent Carchietta – USA TODAY Sports
Career stats: 12.4 PPG, 5.7 RPG, 1.8 APG, 1.4 SPG, 0.4 BPG
Thaddeus Young’s career since entering the NBA has been characterized by versatility, energy and consistency. Known for his athleticism and versatility, Young is a solid player on both ends of the court. Young’s versatility allows him to adapt to different team roles and make significant contributions as a complementary player. Throughout his career, he was respected for his work ethic, professionalism and leadership, which is why he played more than 1,100 games for seven different teams.
2008 Draft Class – Russell Westbrook (1,094 games played)
Image credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports
Career stats: 22.4 points, 7.3 rebounds, 8.4 assists, 1.6 assists, 0.3 rebounds
Russell Westbrook has had an incredible career overcoming many obstacles. Despite coming into the league as a point guard with no jump shot or a natural feel for controlling the flow of the game, Westbrook has consistently shown his scoring, rebounding and playmaking skills. His aggressive style of play, attacking the rim with ferocity, makes him a dynamic scoring threat. In addition, his rebounding ability from the guard position is unmatched, often leading to fast break opportunities. His nine All-Star selections and historic triple-double season solidified his status as one of the most exciting players of his generation, and he’s coming off an incredible 15 seasons.
2009 Draft Class – DeMar DeRozan (1,031 games played)
Image credit: Kamil Krzaczynski – USA TODAY Sports
Career stats: 21.0 points, 4.4 rebounds, 4.0 assists, 1.0 points, 0.3 rebounds
DeMar DeRozan’s career since entering the NBA has been marked by his scoring prowess, offensive versatility and continued improvement. Known for his mid-range shooting and ability around the rim, DeRozan has been a reliable scorer throughout his career. His footwork, athleticism and foul-drawing skills make him a formidable opponent for defenders. Although he didn’t win an NBA title, his impact and scoring ability cemented his status as one of the league’s top shooting guards, which is why he was named an All-Star six times in 14 seasons.
2010 Draft Class – Paul George (793 games played)
Image credit: Kamil Krzaczynski – USA TODAY Sports
Career stats: 20.6 PPG, 6.4 RPG, 3.7 APG, 1.7 SPG, 0.4 BPG
Paul George’s career since entering the NBA has been defined by his excellence on both ends of the floor, his scoring versatility, and his ability to impact the game on both ends of the floor. Known for his fluid shooting and athleticism, George has been the go-to scorer throughout his career. George’s knack for creating his own shot, knocking down outside jumpers and attacking the rim makes him a dynamic offensive threat. Defensively, George’s size, speed and basketball IQ make him a versatile defender who can guard multiple positions. George has one of the smoothest games in recent memory, and in his 13 seasons, he’s pretty much accomplished everything but an NBA championship.
2011 Draft Class – Tobias Harris (827 games played)
Image credit: Gregory Fisher-USA TODAY Sports
Career stats: 16.2 PPG, 6.1 RPG, 2.3 APG, 0.8 SPG, 0.5 BPG
Known for his fluid shooting and ability to score from various spots on the court, Tobias Harris has been a reliable scorer throughout his career. The forward can score inside, knock down outside jumpers, and contribute as a playmaker. Harris’ versatility allows him to adapt to different team environments and contribute as a primary or secondary scoring option. Harris has expanded his game over time, adding a solid 3-point shot and improving his playmaking. Despite getting caught up in constant trade rumors every once in a while…
Find more articles in our categories Sports & NFL ou encore Football.
