The 2024-25 NBA season saw several stars carry a heavy workload, consistently playing the most minutes for their teams. From young guards like Tyrese Maxey leading the league to veterans like Kevin Durant defying their age, these players were the engines of their squads. This review looks back at the top players in minutes per game and what their high usage could mean for the upcoming season.
Playing extensive minutes is often a sign of a player’s importance to their team. For many on this list, it was a necessity due to team injuries or a lack of depth. For others, it is simply a testament to their incredible stamina and skill. However, such a heavy workload raises questions about long-term health and sustainability. As we look ahead to the 2025-26 season, several of these players find themselves in new situations—with new teammates or returning from injury—that could change how much time they spend on the floor.
🌟 Young Guards Taking Charge
Leading the league, Tyrese Maxey averaged 37.7 minutes over 52 games, stepping up while his team faced ongoing injury issues. He proved he could lead the offense, averaging an impressive 26.3 points and 6.1 assists. At just 24 years old, he has now played over 37 minutes per game for two straight seasons and is positioned to remain a key player. Similarly, De’Aaron Fox averaged 36.1 minutes per game. After being traded from the Kings to the Spurs, he is expected to take on a major role for his new team once he returns from a finger injury that cut his season short.
💪 Veterans Proving Their Endurance
At 36 years old, Kevin Durant showed he is still one of the best, playing 36.5 minutes per game while scoring 26.6 points with excellent efficiency. Now with a deep Rockets team, his playing time might be managed more carefully, but his scoring is expected to remain high. Kyrie Irving was also playing heavy minutes (36.1 per game) and performing well before a torn ACL ended his season in March. He hopes to return by January 2026. Rounding out the top 10, Damian Lillard averaged 35.1 minutes, continuing to be a reliable and essential leader for his team.
📈 Breakout Seasons and Big Expectations
Jamal Murray logged a career-high 36.1 minutes per game for the Nuggets, also reaching a new career-best in scoring with 21.4 points per game. While new additions to the team’s backcourt might slightly reduce his playing time, he remains their main playmaker. Meanwhile, Jalen Johnson was having a breakout season for the Hawks, averaging a double-double with 18.9 points and 10.0 rebounds in 35.7 minutes before a shoulder injury in January. He is expected to be ready for the new season and will look to continue his impressive development.
🔄 New Roles and Shifting Dynamics
The 2024-25 Kia NBA Clutch Player of the Year, Jalen Brunson, was vital for the Knicks, playing 35.4 minutes per game. With the addition of Jordan Clarkson, the Knicks may be able to give him more rest without sacrificing backcourt production. In one of the season’s biggest moves, Luka Dončić was traded to the Lakers. He averaged 35.4 minutes across his time with the Mavericks and Lakers and is now set to form a dynamic partnership with LeBron James. Lastly, Fred VanVleet’s leadership was crucial for the young Rockets, where he averaged 35.2 minutes. With Kevin Durant joining the team, VanVleet’s role will evolve, potentially allowing him to be more efficient with a slightly reduced workload.
