LeBron is 39 years old, KD is 35 years old, and Steph is 36 years old. All three made an All-NBA team this season averaging over 25 points per game each.
Though there has been a clear decline in athleticism, they have all still been able to compete as top 10 level players.
For KD and Steph specifically, people will say that KD and Steph’s game don’t really rely on athleticism, but I don’t think this is completely true. Durant prior to his Achilles injury in 2019 used to be one of the best prolific drivers in the league, especially during his early OKC days. Steph, on the other hand, runs a lot during the game to open himself up for shots.
What have these 3 future hall of famers done to allow them to age gracefully, while other superstars start to or have fell off by the time they hit their age?
It is mostly rule changes and a change in defensive meta. No way they still remain this healthy and effective if they were subjected to more physically punishing fouls.
For all the shooting skills they may possess, they would be a shadow of their former selves if they get ankle and knee injuries.