With the new NBA season approaches, the financial stakes are higher than ever for some of the league's elite players. With lucrative contracts reflecting their invaluable contributions on the court, here’s a look at the top five highest-paid NBA players for the upcoming season:
5. Bradley Beal (50.2 million USD)
Although not in the top five, Phoenix Suns' teammate Bradley Beal is worth mentioning. With a salary of $50.2 million, Beal’s contribution to the Suns' lineup complements Durant's, making them a formidable duo.
4. Kevin Durant (51.2 million USD)
Phoenix Suns' forward Kevin Durant rounds out the top five, with a salary of $51.2 million. Durant’s scoring ability and versatility make him one of the most valuable players in the league, justifying his high salary.
3. Nikola Jokic & Joel Embiid (51.4 million USD)
Tied to the third place are Denver Nuggets centre Nikola Jokic and Philadelphia 76ers’ centre Joel Embiid, both set to earn $51.4 million. Jokic, the reigning NBA Finals MVP, and Embiid, known for his dominant play, share this lucrative tier, reflecting their significant impact on their respective teams.
2. Kawhi Leonard (52.4 million USD)
Los Angeles Clippers' forward Kawhi Leonard holds the second position with a substantial salary of approximately $52.4 million. Leonard's defensive prowess and clutch performances are key reasons behind his impressive earnings.
1. Stephen Curry (55.8 million USD)
Leading the pack is Golden State Warriors superstar Stephen Curry. Set to earn nearly $55.8 million this season, Curry's contract underscores his status as one of the premier talents in the league. His exceptional shooting ability and leadership continue to justify his top spot on this list.
In addition to these top earners, Devin Booker of the Suns, Jaylen Brown of the Boston Celtics, Karl-Anthony Towns of the Minnesota Timberwolves, and Paul George of the Philadelphia 76ers are tied for seventh place, each making $49.2 million. The depth of talent in the NBA is further highlighted by the fact that 38 players are set to earn at least $35 million this season, showcasing the league’s financial and competitive intensity.
Here is the full list:
Rank |
Player |
Salary |
1 |
Stephen Curry |
$55,761,217 |
2 |
Kawhi Leonard |
$52,368,085 |
3 |
Nikola Jokic |
$51,415,938 |
3 |
Joel Embiid |
$51,415,938 |
5 |
Kevin Durant |
$51,179,020 |
6 |
Bradley Beal |
$50,203,930 |
7 |
Devin Booker |
$49,205,800 |
7 |
Paul George |
$49,205,800 |
7 |
Karl-Anthony Towns |
$49,205,800 |
7 |
Jaylen Brown |
$49,205,800 |
11 |
Jimmy Butler |
$48,798,677 |
12 |
Giannis Antetokounmpo |
$48,787,676 |
12 |
Damian Lillard |
$48,787,676 |
14 |
LeBron James |
$48,728,845 |
15 |
Rudy Gobert |
$43,827,586 |
16 |
Anthony Davis |
$43,219,440 |
17 |
Trae Young |
$43,031,940 |
17 |
Zach LaVine |
$43,031,940 |
17 |
Luka Doncic |
$43,031,940 |
20 |
Fred VanVleet |
$42,846,615 |
21 |
Tyrese Haliburton |
$42,176,400 |
21 |
Pascal Siakam |
$42,176,400 |
21 |
Anthony Edwards |
$42,176,400 |
24 |
Kyrie Irving |
$41,000,000 |
25 |
Domantas Sabonis |
$40,500,000 |
26 |
Ben Simmons |
$40,338,144 |
27 |
Darius Garland |
$36,725,670 |
27 |
Ja Morant |
$36,725,670 |
27 |
Zion Williamson |
$36,725,670 |
30 |
OG Anunoby |
$36,637,932 |
31 |
Jamal Murray |
$36,016,200 |
31 |
Brandon Ingram |
$36,016,200 |
33 |
Michael Porter Jr. |
$35,859,950 |
33 |
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander |
$35,859,950 |
35 |
Donovan Mitchell |
$35,410,310 |
36 |
LaMelo Ball |
$35,147,000 |
36 |
Tyrese Maxey |
$35,147,000 |
38 |
James Harden |
$35,000,000 |