NBA draft classes with fewest active players include 2003 (LeBron) and 2005 (CP3) - ESPN

There's an underlying storyline heading into the meeting between the Los Angeles Lakers and San Antonio Spurs on Friday (4:30 p.m. ET on ESPN) that includes two of the oldest players in the NBA: LeBron James (39) and Chris Paul (39).

The future Hall of Famers have combined for over 60,000 points and 32 All Star appearances. They are also one half of the memorable Banana Boat crew.

They are also the final active players from their respective NBA drafts.

The Cleveland Cavaliers selected James at No. 1 in 2003, while the then-New Orleans Hornets took Paul at No. 4 in 2005. Paul and James are their drafts' leaders in games, minutes, points and assists.

Those two years aren't the only ones without many players still active. Here's a look at draft classes with the fewest players remaining in the league.

2006

Kyle Lowry (No. 24), P.J. Tucker (No. 35)

Lowry has played the most games from the group of players drafted. Currently with the Philadelphia 76ers, Lowry has suited up for five franchises. The Memphis Grizzlies selected him before he went to the Houston Rockets, then to the Toronto Raptors (where he won the 2019 NBA championship), Miami Heat and 76ers.

Tucker's a champion too, playing a key role in the Milwaukee Bucks winning in 2021. Though the Raptors drafted him, he spent five seasons overseas after his rookie year before returning to the league. Tucker is part of the LA Clippers' roster but away from the team while the franchise looks to find him a «different situation.»

The 2006 NBA draft also included the selection of current Lakers head coach JJ Redick, Rajon Rondo, Lamarcus Aldridge and Rudy Gay, who recently retired.

2007

Kevin Durant (No. 2), Al Horford (No. 3), Mike Conley (No. 4), Jeff Green (No. 5)

All of