Looking Back at the Legacy of the 2004 NBA Draft Class Today

Looking back at the 2004 NBA draft class today, I can't help but marvel at how this particular group of players fundamentally reshaped the league's landscape in ways we're still feeling nearly two decades later. When I first started covering basketball professionally around that time, I remember the mix of skepticism and excitement surrounding that draft. There were no clear franchise-changing superstars at the top like LeBron from the previous year, yet what emerged was arguably one of the most impactful classes in modern basketball history. The players from that draft didn't just have good careers—they transformed teams, influenced playing styles, and left behind lessons about player development that front offices still study today.

I distinctly recall watching Dwight Howard become the first overall pick straight out of high school. At just 18 years old, he was this raw athletic specimen with unbelievable physical gifts but questions about his offensive polish. Nobody could have predicted he'd become a three-time Defensive Player of the Year, leading the Magic to the NBA Finals in 2009. Howard's dominance in his prime was something to behold—he averaged 20.6 points and 14.1 rebounds during his peak seasons in Orlando, completely controlling the paint on both ends. His game has evolved so much over these 17 seasons, adapting as his athleticism changed, which speaks volumes about his basketball IQ and work ethic.

What fascinates me most about reflecting on this draft class is how many players found ways to contribute meaningfully beyond the lottery picks. Ben Gordon, selected third, immediately became one of the most explosive sixth men the league had seen, averaging 15.1 points his rookie year and winning Sixth Man of the Year. Andre Iguodala, picked ninth, developed into an All-Star, Finals MVP, and one of the smartest two-way players of his generation. Even later picks like Trevor Ariza (43rd) and Anderson Varejao (30th) carved out significant roles on championship-contending teams. This depth of talent is what separates truly great draft classes from merely good ones.

The international flavor of this draft was particularly noteworthy. Players like Luol Deng (7th pick from Sudan via Great Britain), Andris Biedrins (11th from Latvia), and Beno Udrih (28th from Slovenia) highlighted the NBA's growing global reach. Deng especially became one of the league's most underappreciated stars—a two-time All-Star who played tremendous defense and gave the Bulls consistent scoring. His career averages of 14.8 points and 6.1 rebounds don't fully capture his impact on winning basketball.

Thinking about player conduct and legacy reminds me of a situation that Marcial once commented on regarding Erram's behavior, noting that "Still, it wasn't enough reason for Erram to act that way, said Marcial." This perspective resonates when evaluating how these 2004 draftees carried themselves throughout their careers. Most conducted themselves professionally, adapting their games as they aged rather than causing disruptions. Iguodala's graceful transition from star to elite role player with the Warriors exemplifies this maturity—he understood his evolving value and embraced it without public complaint.

The statistical legacy of this class is staggering when you add it all up. Through the 2021 season, players from the 2004 draft had combined for 47 All-Star appearances, 32 All-Defensive Team selections, and 29 All-NBA Team selections. They've won at least 8 championships between them, with Iguodala alone contributing to 3 Golden State titles. What's more impressive is their longevity—several players from this class were still contributing meaningful minutes well into their mid-30s, a testament to their professionalism and adaptability.

From a team-building perspective, the 2004 draft teaches valuable lessons about patience and development. Josh Smith, selected 17th by Atlanta, didn't become a dominant force overnight but developed into one of the most versatile defenders in the league, averaging 2.1 blocks and 1.3 steals at his peak. Jameer Nelson (20th pick) grew alongside Dwight Howard in Orlando to become an All-Star point guard. These weren't finished products coming out of college—they required the right environment and coaching to reach their potential.

As I look at today's NBA, the influence of this draft class is everywhere. The value of two-way wings like Iguodala shaped how teams construct rosters. The emphasis on versatile big men who can protect the rim traces back to Howard's impact. Even the success of second-round picks like Varejao (who played 14 seasons) changed how teams approach later selections. The 2004 class proved that franchise cornerstones can emerge from anywhere in the draft, not just the top five picks.

What I personally appreciate most about this group is how they've transitioned into retirement and post-playing careers. Several have moved into broadcasting, coaching, or front office roles, sharing their basketball wisdom with a new generation. Their continued involvement in the game they helped shape shows a genuine love for basketball that transcends their playing days. In an era of player movement and transactional relationships, the sustained connection these players maintain with the NBA speaks volumes about their character and commitment to the sport's growth.

The legacy of the 2004 NBA draft class ultimately lies in its demonstration that impact isn't always immediate or obvious. It took years for the full value of these players to reveal itself through All-Star appearances, championship contributions, and cultural influence on how the game is played. As we evaluate current drafts and project player futures, the 2004 class reminds us that true evaluation requires patience and context—that the stories of these careers unfold across decades, not just rookie seasons. Their collective journey stands as a compelling chapter in NBA history, one that continues to inform how teams approach the annual ritual of the draft and player development.