The NBA consistently delivers captivating basketball games that draw fans from around the world. And to no one’s surprise, it is also known for the massive salaries its top players command.
Compared to previous years, the 2023-24 season is particularly notable, as it sees record earnings for some of the league’s biggest names. Let’s have a closer look at it.
- Stephen Curry continues to top the NBA salary charts with $51.9 million.
- Kevin Durant and Nikola Jokic follow closely, earning $47.6 million.
- The list features a mix of seasoned veterans like LeBron James and rising stars like Luka Doncic, reflecting the league’s diverse talent and earning power.
1. Stephen Curry – $51.9 million
Golden State Warriors’ Stephen Curry leads the NBA salary charts, earning $51.9 million this season.
Curry’s consistent performance and his role in revolutionizing the game with his three-point shooting have cemented his status as one of the league’s top earners.
Known as the “Baby-Faced Assassin,” Curry’s influence extends beyond the court with significant endorsement deals and a strong presence in media and business ventures.
His leadership has been instrumental in the Warriors’ multiple championships, and his salary reflects his value both on and off the court.
2. Kevin Durant – $47.6 million
Kevin Durant of the Phoenix Suns is the second-highest earner at $47.6 million.
Durant’s move to the Suns has positioned him as a key player in their quest for a championship, reflecting his immense value on and off the court.
Durant is known for his scoring ability and versatility, which have made him one of the most formidable players in the league.
His salary is a testament to his impact on the game and his marketability, which includes numerous endorsement deals and investments.
3. Nikola Jokic – $47.6 million
Denver Nuggets’ center Nikola Jokic, a two-time MVP, shares the second spot with Durant.
Jokic’s all-around game and leadership have been pivotal for the Nuggets, making his salary a testament to his impact.
Jokic recently signed the richest contract in NBA history, underscoring his value to the Nuggets.
His unique skill set as a center who can pass, shoot, and rebound effectively has revolutionized the position, making him indispensable to his team’s success.
4. Joel Embiid – $46.9 million
Philadelphia 76ers’ Joel Embiid is another prominent figure in the NBA, earning $46.9 million.
As the reigning MVP, Embiid’s dominant presence in the paint and scoring ability make him one of the league’s top talents.
Embiid’s charismatic personality and strong social media presence have also contributed to his high marketability.
His salary reflects his contributions to the 76ers and his potential to lead them deep into the playoffs.
5. LeBron James – $46.9 million
LeBron James of the Los Angeles Lakers also earns $46.9 million. His continued excellence and leadership at an advanced career stage underscore his enduring value to the Lakers and the NBA.
LeBron is widely regarded as one of the greatest basketball players of all time, and his influence extends well beyond the court.
James remains a global icon with numerous business ventures, including entertainment and philanthropy.
His salary reflects his contributions to the sport and his status as a cultural figure.
6. Bradley Beal – $46.7 million
Bradley Beal, now with the Phoenix Suns, earns $46.7 million. Beal’s scoring prowess has been well-recognized throughout his career, and his move to the Suns marks a fresh start with significant expectations.
Known for his ability to score from anywhere on the court, Beal’s presence is expected to be a game-changer for the Suns’ title aspirations – we could even expect some amazing dunks.
His contract reflects his value as one of the premier shooting guards in the league, capable of consistently delivering high offensive output.
7. Paul George – $45.6 million
Paul George of the Los Angeles Clippers earns $45.6 million. George’s two-way skills, combining excellent defense with significant scoring ability, make him a cornerstone of the Clippers’ success.
His versatility allows him to guard multiple positions while also being a primary scoring option.
George’s leadership and performance in clutch situations underscore his importance to the team, justifying his substantial salary.
8. Damian Lillard – $45.6 million
Damian Lillard, who Milwaukee Bucks’ new acquisition, also earns $45.6 million. Lillard’s move to Milwaukee is expected to significantly bolster the Bucks’ championship hopes, providing them with a dynamic scorer and leader.
Known for his deep shooting range and clutch performances, Lillard’s addition to the Bucks aims to complement Giannis Antetokounmpo’s inside game, creating a formidable duo.
His salary highlights his status as one of the elite guards in the NBA.
9. Kawhi Leonard – $45.6 million
Kawhi Leonard of the Los Angeles Clippers, known for his defensive prowess and clutch performances, shares the seventh spot.
Leonard’s ability to impact games on both ends of the floor, from shutting down top scorers to delivering critical baskets, makes him invaluable.
Despite injury concerns, Leonard remains one of the league’s most effective and respected players.
His salary reflects his ability to change the course of games, especially during the playoffs.
10. Giannis Antetokounmpo – $45.6 million
Milwaukee Bucks’ Giannis Antetokounmpo, a former MVP and Defensive Player of the Year, remains a top earner at $45.6 million.
Giannis’s all-around game, which encompasses scoring, rebounding, playmaking, and defense, makes him indispensable to the Bucks.
His leadership and relentless work ethic have been crucial to Milwaukee’s success, including their 2021 NBA Championship.
Antetokounmpo’s salary is a testament to his significant contributions and his standing as one of the best players in the league.
11. Jimmy Butler – $45.2 million
Miami Heat’s Jimmy Butler earns $45.2 million. Butler’s reputation for elevating his game in the playoffs and his leadership qualities are key to the Heat’s success.
Known as “Playoff Jimmy,” his ability to perform under pressure has been critical in the Heat’s deep playoff runs.
Butler’s all-around game includes scoring, defense, and playmaking, making him one of the league’s most versatile and valuable players.
His salary reflects his status as a top-tier player and a leader on and off the court.
12. Klay Thompson – $43.2 million
Golden State Warriors’ Klay Thompson earns $43.2 million. Thompson’s return from injury and his shooting abilities are vital for the Warriors’ title aspirations.
After missing significant time due to injuries, Thompson’s comeback has been crucial for the Warriors’ success. His ability to stretch the floor with his three-point shooting and his defensive prowess make him an essential part of the team’s championship hopes.
Thompson’s salary reflects his significant contributions to the team’s past and potential future successes.
13. Rudy Gobert – $41.0 million
Minnesota Timberwolves’ Rudy Gobert, known for his defensive dominance, earns $41.0 million. His presence in the paint is crucial for the Timberwolves’ defensive strategies.
Gobert, a multiple-time Defensive Player of the Year, is known for his shot-blocking and rebounding abilities, which anchor the Timberwolves’ defense.
His impact on the game is not always reflected in traditional statistics, but his ability to alter opponents’ shots and protect the rim is invaluable.
Gobert’s salary reflects his elite status as one of the best defensive players in the league.
14. Fred VanVleet – $40.8 million
Fred VanVleet, now with the Houston Rockets, earns $40.8 million. His leadership and scoring ability are expected to lead the Rockets’ rebuild.
VanVleet, who played a key role in the Toronto Raptors’ 2019 championship, brings his championship experience and veteran presence to a young Rockets team.
His ability to score, distribute the ball, and play tough defense makes him a valuable addition to the Rockets.
VanVleet’s salary reflects his importance to the team’s rebuilding efforts and his status as a top guard in the league.
15. Anthony Davis – $40.6 million
Los Angeles Lakers’ Anthony Davis earns $40.6 million. Davis’ impact on both ends of the court and his health will be pivotal for the Lakers’ season.
Known for his defensive versatility and scoring ability, Davis is a crucial player for the Lakers.
His ability to dominate the paint, protect the rim, and score from inside and outside makes him one of the league’s most complete players.
However, his health has been a concern, and the Lakers’ success often hinges on Davis staying injury-free.
His salary reflects his immense talent and potential to lead the Lakers to another championship.
16. Luka Doncic – $40.0 million
Dallas Mavericks’ Luka Doncic, one of the brightest young stars in the NBA, earns $40.0 million. Doncic’s playmaking and scoring abilities make him a franchise cornerstone.
His ability to control the game with his vision, passing, and scoring has made him one of the most exciting players to watch.
He has already achieved numerous accolades at a young age, including multiple All-Star selections and All-NBA Team honors.
Doncic’s salary reflects his potential to be one of the all-time greats in the league.
17. Trae Young – $40.0 million
Atlanta Hawks’ Trae Young, known for his scoring and playmaking, also earns $40.0 million. Young’s growth and leadership are critical for the Hawks’ success.
His ability to hit deep three-pointers and create plays for his teammates makes him a dynamic offensive threat.
Young has quickly become the face of the franchise and a fan favorite, leading the Hawks to significant playoff success in recent years. His salary underscores his importance to the team’s future.
18. Zach LaVine – $40.0 million
Chicago Bulls’ Zach LaVine, a prolific scorer and key player for the Bulls, earns $40.0 million.
LaVine’s athleticism and scoring ability make him one of the premier shooting guards in the league.
He has improved his game significantly over the years, becoming an All-Star and a central figure in the Bulls’ offense.
LaVine’s salary reflects his role as a leader and his potential to take the Bulls deep into the playoffs.
19. Tobias Harris – $39.3 million
Philadelphia 76ers’ Tobias Harris earns $39.3 million. Harris’ versatility and scoring make him an essential part of the 76ers’ roster.
His ability to play both forward positions and contribute on both ends of the floor provides the 76ers with valuable flexibility.
Harris is known for his consistent scoring and reliable defense, making him a key component of the team’s success.
His salary reflects his value as a versatile and dependable player.
20. Ben Simmons – $37.9 million
Brooklyn Nets’ Ben Simmons earns $37.9 million. Simmons’ defensive skills and playmaking are crucial for the Nets’ aspirations.
Despite recent challenges, including injuries and questions about his shooting, Simmons remains one of the best defenders in the league.
His ability to guard multiple positions and facilitate the offense makes him a unique talent. Simmons’ salary reflects his potential to be a game-changer when healthy and fully engaged.
In summary, the earnings of these NBA stars reflect their immense talent and contributions to the sport. As the league continues to grow, so will the salaries of its top players.
The 2023-24 season shows a mix of seasoned veterans and rising stars, all earning their place among the highest-paid in the NBA.
