The Longest-Tenured Players For Every NBA Team In 2024-25

With the 2024-25 NBA season arrived, each team is anchored by its longest-tenured player—a key figure who is the veteran on the roster. From household names like Stephen Curry, still the heart and soul of the Warriors after 16 seasons, to emerging stars like Shai Gilgeous-Alexander leading the Thunder, these players represent the foundation and identity of their franchises. But who stands as the longest-tenured face of each team, and what can we expect from them this year?

Atlanta Hawks – Trae Young (7th season)

Young’s tenure with the Hawks: 2019 and still counting (7th season)

Trae Young continues to be the face of the Atlanta Hawks, now heading into his seventh season with the franchise. Having established himself as one of the league’s premier playmakers and scorers, Young’s dynamic offensive skill set remains the key to Atlanta’s success. With a young supporting cast around him, including the growing talents of Zaccharie Risacher and Jalen Johnson, Young will look to blend his exceptional court vision with a more consistent scoring output. Unless he is traded, Young will continue being the main attraction in Atlanta in 2024-25.

Boston Celtics – Jaylen Brown (9th season)

Brown’s tenure with the Celtics: 2017 and still counting (9th season)

Coming off a year in which the Celtics captured the NBA title, Jaylen Brown will be counted on to shoulder more offensive responsibility, especially with Kristaps Porzingis sidelined for a large part of the season. Brown’s elite athleticism, combined with his ability to guard multiple positions and score from all three levels, makes him indispensable to Boston’s aspirations of a repeat. As a leader both on and off the court, Brown’s maturity will make him the leader of the squad alongside Jayson Tatum.

Brooklyn Nets – Nic Claxton (6th season)

Claxton’s tenure with the Nets: 2020 and still counting (6th season)

Nic Claxton has quietly become one of the NBA’s elite rim protectors, and entering his sixth season with the Brooklyn Nets, he’ll play a vital role in shaping their defensive identity. This season, Claxton will be tasked with not only anchoring the defense but also developing his offensive game, particularly in finishing around the rim and expanding his mid-range shot. The Nets are currently in a rebuild and Claxton will have to spearhead that as the veteran on the squad.

Charlotte Hornets – Miles Bridges (7th season)

Bridges’ tenure with the Hornets: 2019 and still counting (7th season)

Miles Bridges returns to the Charlotte Hornets with a lot to prove, and this season will be pivotal for his career and the franchise. Bridges will be tasked with being a primary offensive option alongside LaMelo Ball who will start his sixth season with the team. Bridges will need to embrace a leadership role, helping to guide a young core that includes Ball, Brandon Miller, and Mark Williams. If Bridges can blend his talents with consistency, he could solidify himself as a franchise cornerstone.

Chicago Bulls – Zach LaVine (8th season)

LaVine’s tenure with the Bulls: 2018 and still counting (8th season)

Zach LaVine remains the centerpiece of the Chicago Bulls’ offense as he heads into his eighth season with the team. Assuming he isn’t traded, the challenge for LaVine this season will be to continue improving as a playmaker and defender, ensuring that his impact goes beyond scoring. As the Bulls navigate the competitive Eastern Conference and hope to make the play-in tournament, LaVine’s contributions will be pivotal to their success.

Cleveland Cavaliers – Darius Garland (6th season)

Garland’s tenure with the Cavaliers: 2020 and still counting (6th season)

Darius Garland enters his sixth season with the Cleveland Cavaliers as one of the brightest young point guards in the NBA. Coming off an All-Star caliber campaign, Garland will be looking to further solidify himself as the floor general for a talented Cavaliers roster. As the Cavaliers aim to build on last season after making the second round of the playoffs, Garland’s role in orchestrating the offense and setting the pace will be crucial. His chemistry with fellow star Donovan Mitchell will be a focal point, and Garland’s growth as a leader will be key in guiding this young team through a highly competitive Eastern Conference.

Dallas Mavericks – Dwight Powell (11th season)

Powell’s tenure with the Mavericks: 2015 and still counting (11th season)

Dwight Powell, now in his 11th season in the NBA and first full season with the Dallas Mavericks, brings a wealth of experience to a team built around Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving. Powell’s role will likely focus on providing defensive intensity off the bench, helping to stabilize the Mavericks’ second unit. This season, Powell’s contributions will be measured not only by his size but also by his ability to provide leadership and defensive tenacity as the Mavericks aim for a deep playoff run.

Denver Nuggets – Nikola Jokic (10th season)

Jokic’s tenure with the Nuggets: 2016 and still counting (10th season)

Nikola Jokic enters his tenth season with the Denver Nuggets as the reigning NBA Finals MVP and arguably the best player in the world. The reigning three-time MVP will once again be the focal point of Denver’s attack, but he will also need to take on an even greater leadership role as the Nuggets face the challenge of remaining atop a competitive Western Conference. Expect Jokic to continue redefining what it means to be a dominant big man, as he aims to lead Denver to their second championship.

Detroit Pistons – Isaiah Stewart (5th season)

Stewart’s tenure with the Pistons: 2021 and still counting (5th season)

Isaiah Stewart enters his fifth season with the Detroit Pistons, providing toughness and versatility to a young and evolving team. Known for his physicality and tenacity, Stewart’s role in 2024-25 will be to anchor Detroit’s frontcourt alongside emerging talents like Cade Cunningham and Jalen Duren. This season, Stewart will be tasked with setting the tone for the Pistons, both in terms of effort and energy, as they look to establish a winning culture after only winning 14 games last season.

Golden State Warriors – Stephen Curry (16th season)

Curry’s tenure with the Warriors: 2010 and still counting (16th season)

Stephen Curry, now entering his 16th season with the Golden State Warriors, remains the heartbeat of the franchise. The greatest shooter in NBA history continues to defy Father Time with his unparalleled shooting ability and off-ball movement. Even if he turns 37 years old at some point this season, Curry can still be a driving force behind the dark horse Warriors that have retooled after losing Klay Thompson in free agency this summer.

Houston Rockets – Jae’Sean Tate (5th season)

Tate’s tenure with the Rockets: 2021 and still counting (5th season)

Jae’Sean Tate enters his fifth season with the Houston Rockets as one of the most versatile players on the team. As the Rockets continue to build around younger stars like Jalen Green and Jabari Smith Jr., Tate’s leadership and experience will be critical in guiding this young squad toward a more competitive future. Even if he has fallen in the rotation, Tate can be trusted off the bench.

Indiana Pacers – Myles Turner (10th season)

Turner’s tenure with the Pacers: 2016 and still counting (10th season)

Myles Turner, now entering his tenth season with the Indiana Pacers, remains one of the league’s most reliable defensive anchors. Turner’s ability to block shots and guard the paint is unmatched, but his game has expanded beyond defense. In recent years, he has developed into a capable stretch-five, spacing the floor with his three-point shooting, which adds a dynamic element to the Pacers’ offense. In the 2024-25 season, Turner will be relied upon not just for his elite rim protection, but also to help Indiana’s young core return to the Eastern Conference Finals.

Los Angeles Clippers – Ivica Zubac (7th season)

Zubac’s tenure with the Clippers: 2019 and still counting (7th season)

Ivica Zubac has quietly become a mainstay in the Los Angeles Clippers lineup, entering his seventh season with the team, rather amazingly. Zubac’s impact often goes unnoticed, but his ability to control the boards and protect the rim is crucial to the Clippers’ success. In the 2024-25 season, Zubac will once again be tasked with anchoring the team’s interior defense, providing a strong presence in the paint, and serving as an outlet for pick-and-roll plays on offense. With Kawhi Leonard out indefinitely this season, Zubac will have to pick up some of the offensive slack.

Los Angeles Lakers – LeBron James (7th season)

James’ tenure with the Lakers: 2019 and still counting (7th season)

LeBron James enters his seventh season with the Los Angeles Lakers, continuing to defy time as he remains one of the NBA’s premier players at the age of 39. After winning a championship with the Lakers in 2020, LeBron is now focused on adding one more title to his illustrious resume. Despite being in the twilight of his career, James’ performance will remain pivotal for the Lakers’ championship hopes, and with a younger supporting cast that includes Bronny James, this season could be one of his most interesting yet.

Memphis Grizzlies – Jaren Jackson Jr. (7th season)

Jackson Jr.’s tenure with the Grizzlies: 2019 and still counting (7th season)

Jaren Jackson Jr., the reigning Defensive Player of the Year, is entering his seventh season with the Memphis Grizzlies and continues to grow into one of the league’s elite two-way players. Jackson’s shot-blocking and defensive versatility are the backbone of the Grizzlies’ defense, while his ability to stretch the floor with three-point shooting makes him a valuable offensive weapon. In the 2024-25 season, Jackson will be expected to take on an even larger leadership role with Ja Morant returning after a suspension and injury-laden year.

Miami Heat – Bam Adebayo (8th season)

Adebayo’s tenure with the Heat: 2018 and still counting (8th season)

With Jimmy Butler still the Miami Heat’s primary offensive force, Bam Adebayo is expected to continue expanding his offensive game, particularly in mid-range shooting and playmaking from the high post. The Heat’s success in 2024-25 will heavily depend on Bam’s ability to control the tempo defensively while also contributing more as a scoring option. If Adebayo can further develop his offensive arsenal, Miami has the potential to remain a serious contender in the Eastern Conference.

Milwaukee Bucks – Giannis Antetokounmpo (12th season)

Antetokounmpo’s tenure with the Bucks: 2014 and still counting (12th season)

Giannis Antetokounmpo is entering his 12th season with the Milwaukee Bucks as the face of the franchise and one of the best players in the world. The Bucks’ 2024-25 season will once again revolve around Giannis’ unmatched combination of size, athleticism, and skill. Fresh off his partnership with Damian Lillard, Giannis will look to dominate both in transition and in the half-court offense, where his improved passing ability will be showcased alongside Lillard’s shooting. The Bucks will look to win an NBA championship this season and they are very concerned with keeping Giannis happy as a result.

Minnesota Timberwolves – Naz Reid (6th season)

Reid’s tenure with the Timberwolves: 2020 and still counting (6th season)

Naz Reid, entering his sixth season with the Minnesota Timberwolves, has developed into a key frontcourt piece for the team after winning Sixth Man of the Year. Reid’s combination of size, mobility, and shooting touch makes him an essential part of Minnesota’s rotation, particularly in his role backing up Julius Randle and Rudy Gobert. In 2024-25, Reid will be expected to continue providing valuable minutes off the bench or potentially challenge for the starting spot in the Timberwolves rotation.

Orleans Pelicans – Brandon Ingram (6th season), Zion Williamson (6th season)

Ingram, Williamson’s tenure with the Pelicans: 2020 and still counting (6th season)

Both Brandon Ingram and Zion Williamson are entering their sixth season with the New Orleans Pelicans, and their development will dictate the team’s success in 2024-25. Ingram, known for his smooth scoring and improved playmaking, is expected to continue leading the Pelicans in offensive output. On the other hand, Williamson’s health remains the key question mark. If Zion can stay on the court, his combination of power and explosiveness makes him one of the most dominant players in the league.

New York Knicks – Mitchell Robinson (7th season)

Robinson’s tenure with the Knicks: 2019 and still counting (7th season)

Mitchell Robinson enters his seventh season with the New York Knicks as the team’s defensive anchor and most experienced player. Robinson’s ability to protect the rim and dominate the boards has made him a staple of the Knicks’ defense, and in 2024-25, he will continue to serve as their primary interior presence. With Karl-Anthony Towns on board as the go-to big man, Robinson will need to stay healthy to provide defensive resistance and size for the Knicks who were destroyed opening night of the regular season by the Boston Celtics. Hopefully, we can see Towns and Robinson suit up together sooner rather than later.

Oklahoma City Thunder – Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Luguentz Dort (6th season)

Gilgeous-Alexander, Dort’s tenure with the Thunder: 2020 and still counting (6th season)

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Luguentz Dort, entering their sixth season with the Oklahoma City Thunder, are integral to the team’s rise in the Western Conference. Shai is coming off a breakout season where he firmly established himself as one of the league’s premier guards. His smooth scoring, elite playmaking, and defensive ability make him the clear leader for the Thunder. As Shai continues to be an MVP candidate, his focus in 2024-25 will be on leading OKC deeper into the playoffs, improving his efficiency, and honing his leadership on a young roster. On the other hand, Luguentz Dort remains the team’s defensive specialist and will look to make an All-NBA Defensive Team selection.

Orlando Magic – Jonathan Isaac (8th season)

Isaac’s tenure with the Magic: 2021 and still counting (8th season)

Jonathan Isaac, now entering his eighth season with the Orlando Magic, will be looking to finally have a fully healthy campaign. Isaac has shown flashes of defensive brilliance when on the court, with his size, mobility, and shot-blocking ability making him a nightmare for opposing forwards. The 2024-25 season is pivotal for Isaac, as his contributions could be the key to the Magic making a deeper playoff push, especially after signing a five-year, $84 million deal this summer.

Philadelphia 76ers – Joel Embiid (9th season)

Embiid’s tenure with the 76ers: 2017 and still counting (9th season)

Joel Embiid enters his ninth season with the Philadelphia 76ers as the reigning MVP and cornerstone of the franchise. After years of close calls, the 76ers will once again look to Embiid to carry the load as they aim to finally break through to the NBA Finals. Embiid’s combination of size, skill, and dominance in the post makes him the most unguardable big man in the league, and in 2024-25, his focus will be on maintaining his health and dominating in the playoffs. The Sixers will hope to keep their longest-tenured player rested for the regular season while Tyrese Maxey and hopefully Paul George carry the bulk of the load.

Phoenix Suns – Devin Booker (10th season)

Booker’s tenure with the Suns: 2016 and still counting (10th season)

Devin Booker, now entering his 10th season with the Phoenix Suns, continues to be the offensive engine for a team with championship expectations. Booker’s ability to score from all three levels, combined with his growing prowess as a playmaker, makes him one of the most dangerous guards in the league. In 2024-25, Booker will take on even more responsibility as the Suns continue to refine their chemistry with stars like Kevin Durant and Bradley Beal leading the way.

Portland Trail Blazers – Anfernee Simons (7th season)

Simons’ tenure with the Blazers: 2019 and still counting (7th season)

Anfernee Simons enters his seventh season with the Portland Trail Blazers as the new face of the franchise after last year’s departure of Damian Lillard. Simons has steadily developed into a potent scorer and playmaker, and 2024-25 will see him take on a larger leadership role for a team transitioning into a new era. With Lillard gone, Simons is expected to be the Blazers’ primary offensive option, tasked with shouldering a heavier scoring load while also setting up his young teammates like Scoot Henderson.

Sacramento Kings – De’Aaron Fox (8th season)

Fox’s tenure with the Kings: 2018 and still counting (8th season)

De’Aaron Fox, heading into his eighth season with the Sacramento Kings, remains the heart and soul of this rapidly ascending franchise. Fox’s blazing speed and ability to attack the basket make him one of the most dynamic guards in the league. In the 2024-25 season, the Kings will be looking to build on their recent success, with Fox continuing to serve as their offensive catalyst. As the Kings aim to solidify their status as a Western Conference contender, Fox will need to focus on further refining his decision-making and defensive consistency to lead his team deep into the playoffs.

San Antonio Spurs – Keldon Johnson (6th season)

Johnson’s tenure with the Spurs: 2020 and still counting (6th season)

Entering his sixth season with the San Antonio Spurs, Keldon Johnson is embracing his role as a key building block for the team’s future. With the addition of Victor Wembanyama, Johnson’s importance on the wing will become even more crucial as the Spurs look to accelerate their rebuild. Johnson’s versatility on both ends of the floor allows him to defend multiple positions and contribute as a slasher, shooter, and playmaker. In 2024-25, Johnson will likely be tasked with complementing Wembanyama’s development by providing consistent scoring and leadership, especially on a team that’s still young and full of potential.

Toronto Raptors – Chris Boucher (7th season)

Boucher’s tenure with the Raptors: 2019 and still counting (7th season)

Chris Boucher enters his seventh season with the Toronto Raptors as a crucial member of the team’s rotation, known for his energy and impact off the bench. Boucher’s length, shot-blocking ability, and three-point shooting make him a valuable stretch big who can alter games on both ends of the floor. In 2024-25, the Raptors will continue to rely on Boucher to provide a spark in their frontcourt, especially in a season where they aim to return to playoff contention.

Utah Jazz – Jordan Clarkson (6th season)

Clarkson’s tenure with the Jazz: 2020 and still counting (6th season)

Jordan Clarkson enters his sixth season with the Utah Jazz, continuing to be one of the most reliable scoring options on the team. As the Jazz build around their young core, Clarkson’s veteran presence and instant offense will be critical in the 2024-25 season. Whether he’s starting or coming off the bench, Clarkson will be relied upon to lead the second unit and provide scoring punch during crucial stretches of the game.

Washington Wizards – Corey Kispert (4th season)

Kispert’s tenure with the Wizards: 2022 and still counting (4th season)

Corey Kispert, now entering his fourth season with the Washington Wizards, is looking to solidify his role as a sharpshooting wing on a young and developing team. Known for his three-point accuracy, Kispert will be a key floor spacer for the Wizards as they continue their rebuild. In 2024-25, Kispert’s ability to knock down open looks from deep will be crucial, particularly as Washington looks to develop its young talent like Kyle Kuzma and Jordan Poole. 

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