Work Ethic.
Thats why I'm so high on DeMar Derozan. He understands his work ethic is what will define his career. I can see him having a good season this year and depending on if toronto gets a Top 5 draft Pick or not he could have a great season in 2011/2012.
durant, roy, rose, rajon rondo, gilbert arenas (people forget this guy was a work hound, prob still is, played good b4 he got that gun charge) Chris paul, deron williams for sure, danny granger, lebron *sigh*, wade, bosh, timmy duncan?, mr big shot?, monta ellis (trust me, dude is all bout work) stephen curry, hansbrough (thoug not a star) etc....
Brandon Roy played well coming back early from injury. He could lose a step or two and still be effective.
Brook Lopez has a solid game that doesn't rely too much on speech or athleticism.
Deron Williams is a big strong PG. J. Kidd proved to be effective after losing his speed and Deron could do the same.
Pierce has already lost a step or two and is still competing as one of the best at his position.
Lebron James. Once he loses some of his ridiculous athleticism he could still have the strength to become a huge mismatch at the 4.
You have guards like Kobe and Jordan who not only worked up to bring their game to the highest level, but also worked to change their games when they no longer had elite athleticism. You have guys like Karl Malone who could still put up 20 points each night even at the age of 39. Anyone could obviously see the amount of work these guys put to make their careers memorable.
Who do you guys think will be the next star player to show their commitment to the game and keep playing well past his prime?