In recent NBA news, the Los Angeles Clippers are poised to set a remarkable record for the 2025-26 season. With veteran guard Chris Paul joining the team, the Clippers’ roster is emerging as one of the oldest in league history, boasting an average age of 33.2 years. This statistic has garnered attention, especially as the league continues to trend toward younger, more athletic players.
Historically, the NBA has seen older teams like the Hakeem Olajuwon-led Houston Rockets and Michael Jordan’s Chicago Bulls, but they appear youthful compared to the projected 2025-26 Clippers. Tom Haberstroh, a well-known sports analyst, emphasized this disparity, stating that the current Clippers team makes previous “old” teams seem like children in comparison.
The Clippers’ roster not only features Chris Paul, who will be 40 years old, but also includes several other seasoned players. James Harden will be 37 at the start of the season, while Brook Lopez and Nicolas Batum will be 37 and 36, respectively. Meanwhile, superstar Kawhi Leonard will be 34, and there are also key players like Bogdan Bogdanović at 33, Bradley Beal at 32, and Kris Dunn at 31. This collection of experience is impressive, but it raises questions about how well the team will adapt to the evolving pace and style of the modern NBA.
What sets this Clippers team apart is their strategy to build a competitive roster during a time when many teams are prioritizing younger talent. The shift toward youth is evident, as the 2025 NBA Finals showcased the lowest average age on record at just 25.5 years, with the youngest champion emerging at age 24.7. This presents a striking contrast to what the Clippers are attempting with their aging lineup.
Critics have pointed out that while older teams may perform better during the regular season, postseason success often leans toward younger squads. As Haberstroh noted, older teams can secure top seeds, but they might struggle to maintain that momentum in high-pressure playoff situations. The Clippers have a valuable mix of talent and experience, which could help them secure a strong regular-season record. Yet the question remains whether they can translate that into playoff success.
The unique approach of the Clippers raises interesting discussions about team construction in the NBA. While some teams have opted for youth to gain a competitive edge—emphasizing speed and agility—the Clippers have taken a different route, banking on the experience and skills of seasoned players. This strategy could yield significant benefits, especially in terms of leadership and clutch performances during critical moments.
It is also noteworthy how the Clippers’ focus on experience might impact their interactions and chemistry on the court. Older players often bring wisdom and composure to games, which can be invaluable, especially in tight situations. Their ability to read the game, make smart plays, and mentor younger teammates could set the tone for the entire season.
As the NBA landscape evolves, the Clippers make for a fascinating case study. Their commitment to a veteran-heavy lineup during a time when the league is gravitating toward youth suggests a bold gamble. The Clippers are not merely competing with fellow teams but are also challenging the conventional wisdom about roster-building in professional sports. Only time will tell if this strategy will lead to success in a league increasingly defined by its youth.
In conclusion, the Los Angeles Clippers are setting the stage for an intriguing season ahead. With an average age that could redefine what it means to be an “old” team in the NBA, they are embracing experience in a league dominated by youthful exuberance. As the season progresses, basketball fans will be eager to see how this unique blend of talent and age plays out and whether the Clippers can prove that experience still has a place in the game.
