In some rather surprising news, James Harden would seemingly like to finish his career with the Los Angeles Clippers. That begs the question: which current NBA stars should retire with the NBA teams they are currently on? We have collected 10 other star players who should retire in their current spots and not decide to take their talents elsewhere.
- LeBron James – Los Angeles Lakers
- Stephen Curry – Golden State Warriors
- Kawhi Leonard – Los Angeles Clippers
- Kevin Durant – Phoenix Suns
- Giannis Antetokounmpo – Milwaukee Bucks
- Nikola Jokic – Denver Nuggets
- Jayson Tatum – Boston Celtics
- Jimmy Butler – Miami Heat
- Devin Booker – Phoenix Suns
- Klay Thompson – Golden State Warriors
Regarding James Harden, even though he would like to stay with the Clippers, he will not be included on this list since it is very possible that other teams could offer him a lot more money to sign with them versus staying in Los Angeles. Remember, the Clippers have a hefty salary cap bill with Kawhi Leonard and Paul George earning max dollars.
LeBron James – Los Angeles Lakers
LeBron James retiring with the Los Angeles Lakers one day could be the right move. His desire to play alongside his son, Bronny, adds a touching familial dimension to the story, creating the potential for a memorable father-son duo on the same team. Despite the uncertainty of Bronny getting drafted by the Lakers, LeBron’s commitment to concluding his career in the Purple and Gold reflects a loyalty to the most iconic franchise in NBA history.
Remaining with the Lakers allows LeBron to preserve his legacy, avoiding the narrative of switching teams late in his career. Having already delivered an NBA title to Los Angeles in 2020, LeBron’s legacy with the franchise is already firmly established. Retiring with the Lakers offers the opportunity to maintain that legacy intact because he could be one of their best-ever players.
While the pursuit of another NBA title might be challenging given his age and the fact that the Lakers could be in trouble, the championship he secured in 2020 serves as a crowning achievement, solidifying his imprint on the Lakers’ success. Even if LeBron will always be remembered as an icon for the Cleveland Cavaliers and Miami Heat, his stint with the Lakers could be just as critical.
Stephen Curry – Golden State Warriors
Stephen Curry’s journey with the Golden State Warriors so far could allow us to call the point guard “Mr. Golden State.” Undoubtedly one of the greatest players in franchise history, Curry’s impact goes beyond the four NBA titles and two MVP awards he’s earned. From his humble beginnings as the No. 7 overall pick in the 2009 NBA Draft, grappling with doubts about his health, Curry has developed into a two-time MVP, the unparalleled master of the three-point shot, and one of the preeminent players of his generation.
Deserving of the highest honors, Curry’s selfless leadership and incredible skill as a guard have not only elevated his individual status but have also been instrumental in shaping the Warriors’ identity during their championship runs. Curry’s unselfishness allowed players such as Kevin Durant and Andre Iguodala to prosper for the sake of team success.
Considering his impact on and off the court, Curry’s retirement as a Warrior is not just a basketball decision but a cultural and historical one. The idea of erecting a statue in his honor becomes a fitting symbol of his legacy because a player like Curry does not come along often at all.
Kawhi Leonard – Los Angeles Clippers
Kawhi Leonard’s commitment to the Los Angeles Clippers, evidenced by his recent three-year max extension, shows how he wants to win in Los Angeles. Despite grappling with injuries that have limited his appearances to 197 games in five seasons, with the entire 2021-22 season missed due to injury, Leonard is off to a promising start in the current season, averaging 23.8 points per game and showing signs of reclaiming his elite status.
In fact, Leonard seems close to making the first All-Star Team selection since the 2020-21 season. As an elite two-way player, Leonard’s defensive prowess and offensive capabilities make him a cornerstone for the Clippers’ aspirations. While he has previously secured championships with the San Antonio Spurs and the Toronto Raptors, forging a new legacy with the Clippers presents a compelling narrative.
With the support of teammates like Paul George and James Harden, Leonard has a formidable lineup to contend for an NBA title. If he can maintain his current form and health, there’s a strong chance for him to make a significant impact and lead the Clippers to playoff success before he retires.
Kevin Durant – Phoenix Suns
Kevin Durant’s potential move to the Phoenix Suns presents a pivotal moment in his career, signaling an opportunity to settle with a franchise and dispel any lingering doubts about his ability to win outside the Golden State Warriors’ star-studded lineup featuring Stephen Curry, Klay Thompson, and Draymond Green. Despite making the Finals with the Oklahoma City Thunder in 2012, Durant faced setbacks, failing to secure a championship and later falling short with the Brooklyn Nets.
His tenure with the Suns offers Durant a chance to redefine his legacy and showcase leadership beyond his time with the Warriors. The presence of talented teammates like Devin Booker and Bradley Beal could form a potent trio, providing Durant with the support needed for a championship run. After all, Durant’s legacy, which faced scrutiny for shortcomings in leadership with the Nets, could find redemption in Phoenix. Winning at least one title with the Suns would secure his place in NBA history and cement his legacy. No doubt, staying put is in Durant’s best interest.
Giannis Antetokounmpo – Milwaukee Bucks
Giannis Antetokounmpo’s potential departure from the Milwaukee Bucks at the start of the year served as a wake-up call for the franchise, prompting them to make a blockbuster move by acquiring superstar point guard Damian Lillard. The Bucks’ response has translated into a strong season, boasting a 28-12 record and a legitimate chance to contend for the Eastern Conference title.
Giannis, widely recognized as one of the best two-way players ever in terms of impact, has the opportunity to secure a second NBA title with the Bucks. His decision to stay in Milwaukee would not only solidify his commitment to the team but also leave no doubt about his standing as the greatest player in the franchise’s history, surpassing even the legendary Kareem Abdul-Jabbar.
Nikola Jokic – Denver Nuggets
Nikola Jokic has already etched his name as the greatest player in Denver Nuggets history, boasting an impressive resume that includes an NBA title, Finals MVP, and two MVP awards. The Serbian center’s connection with the team goes beyond on-court achievements, as he has become synonymous with the franchise’s success and identity.
Jokic’s likely decision to retire with the Nuggets reflects not only his contentment with the team but also his indifference to the allure of larger markets. Known for his nonchalant approach to professional basketball, Jokic’s loyalty seems grounded in the satisfaction he finds within the Nuggets’ organization rather than a desire for a change in scenery.
Bolstered by an excellent supporting cast and under the coaching of Michael Malone, Jokic has all the elements in place for sustained success in Denver and he will have a statue of him erected one day for everybody to see.
Jayson Tatum – Boston Celtics
Jayson Tatum, following in the footsteps of Celtics legends like Bill Russell, Larry Bird, and Kevin McHale, has the opportunity to establish a lasting legacy in Boston. The tradition of players spending the majority of their careers with the Celtics remains intact and Tatum has the potential to become a central figure in this tradition. Even Paul Pierce spent his prime in Boston before he was traded to the Brooklyn Nets.
Having reached the NBA Finals in 2022, Tatum has already tasted the pinnacle of NBA competition early in his career. As a four-time All-Star and one of the premier scorers in the NBA, he stands at the threshold of greatness. Remaining with the Celtics offers Tatum the chance to further solidify his place among the all-time greats in the rich history of the franchise. Hopefully, Tatum can reach that next level as an MVP candidate and one day deliver an NBA title for the Celtics which would be the record-breaking 18th victory.
Jimmy Butler – Miami Heat
As an elite two-way player who elevates his performance in the postseason, Jimmy Butler has become a dominant force for the Miami Heat. Approaching 35 years old, the likelihood of Butler retiring in South Beach seems high, considering his significant contributions to the team’s success and his alignment with the Heat culture.
Butler’s impact on the Heat goes beyond his on-court prowess; he has played a pivotal role in leading the franchise to two NBA Finals appearances, reminiscent of the “Heatles” era with LeBron James. This resurgence has endeared Butler to the organization, and the fans’ appreciation for his tenacity and leadership further solidify his place in Miami. The Heat organization and the fans love Butler, and the player will likely see out his career with the franchise.
Devin Booker – Phoenix Suns
At 27 years old, Devin Booker’s future remains uncertain because he is young and anything can happen, but signs point towards a potential legacy as one of the best Phoenix Suns players in history. Boasting three All-Star appearances, a remarkable 70-point game, and an NBA Finals appearance, Booker has already left his mark on the franchise.
The prospect of winning an NBA ring in Phoenix alongside formidable talents like Kevin Durant and Bradley Beal could be a decisive factor in determining whether Booker chooses to stay. Achieving championship success with the Suns would not only enhance his personal accolades but solidify his place as a legend in franchise history.
Klay Thompson – Golden State Warriors
Klay Thompson, a key component of the Golden State Warriors’ historic success, faces a pivotal moment in his career as he returns from a prolonged injury absence. A four-time NBA champion and one of the greatest shooters in league history, Thompson’s legacy is intricately tied to the Warriors’ dynasty alongside Stephen Curry and Draymond Green.
Still, so far, the question of whether Thompson will retire with the Warriors looms large. The bond between Thompson and the Warriors, forged through championships and unforgettable moments, suggests a strong connection to the franchise. However, the unpredictable nature of the NBA makes it challenging to determine with certainty if Klay will sign a long-term deal and remain with the Warriors although he absolutely should. The Splash Brothers need to remain together forever until they ride off into the sunset.
