In the ever-evolving world of professional basketball, where the NBA’s salary cap is soaring to unprecedented heights, players are now seizing the opportunity to ink jaw-dropping contracts that make headlines. Let’s take a deep dive into the hoopla surrounding the NBA’s Top 10 Richest Contracts, revealing the colossal deals that have rewritten the league’s financial playbook and set a new standard for player compensation.
NBA’s Top 10 Richest Contracts That Rewrote History
10. Anthony Edwards: Timberwolves’ Whiz Kid Breaks the Bank
This summer, the Minnesota Timberwolves made a splash by inking a five-year, $205.9 million designated rookie contract extension with 21-year-old sensation Anthony Edwards. Averaging an impressive 24 points, 5 rebounds, and 4 assists per game last season, Edwards is a rising star. His contract could potentially skyrocket to $260 million if he clinches a spot on the All-NBA team just before the 2024-25 season kicks off.
9. Joel Embiid: Philly’s Supermax Strategist
In a savvy move, Joel Embiid negotiated his own four-year, $213.28 million extension with the Philadelphia 76ers in 2021, ranking as the ninth-largest contract in NBA history. The center, tied at the league’s salary summit with Nikola Jokic, aims to lead the Sixers beyond the playoffs’ second round, backed by his league-leading 33.1 points per game last season.
8. Luka, Trae, and LaVine: A Trio Tied in the Money Game
Luka Doncic, Trae Young, and Zach LaVine find themselves in a three-way tie, each signing a five-year, $215.16 million rookie contract extension. All achieving All-NBA honors, these rising stars are ushering in a new era, demanding salaries that reflect their on-court prowess.
7. Stephen Curry: Golden State’s $200 Million Sharpshooter
In August 2021, Stephen Curry became the first player to score two $200 million contracts, signing a four-year, $215.35 million maximum extension with the Golden State Warriors. At 35, Curry continues to dazzle, averaging close to 30 points per game and cementing his legacy as one of the greatest shooters in NBA history.
6. Damontas Sabonis: Renegotiating His Way to Riches
The only renegotiation on our list, Damontas Sabonis, secured a $217 million five-year extension with the Sacramento Kings, proving his worth with stellar performances that propelled the team into the playoffs. A key piece in a mid-season trade, Sabonis showcased his prowess, earning a contract that raised eyebrows.
5. Giannis Antetokounmpo: Milwaukee’s Mega Man Stays Put
In December 2020, Giannis Antetokounmpo inked a five-year, $228.2 million designated maximum contract extension with the Milwaukee Bucks. With an annual salary of $45.6 million, Giannis remains committed to a team that has undergone significant changes, signaling a new chapter for the Bucks.
4. Devin Booker and Karl-Anthony Towns: Tied Titans
Phoenix Suns’ Devin Booker and Minnesota Timberwolves’ Karl-Anthony Towns are tied for the fourth-largest contract in NBA history, both signing four-year, $222.66 million designated veteran player extensions. As their earnings approach $50 million annually, these All-Stars are poised to make a significant impact on their respective teams.
3. Bradley Beal: A Wizard’s $251 Million Gamble
Bradley Beal, while still with the Washington Wizards, landed the third-largest contract in NBA history—a five-year max deal worth $251 million. Notable for its inclusion of a no-trade clause, Beal’s deal places him in rare company alongside NBA legends like Kobe Bryant, LeBron James, and Carmelo Anthony.
2. Nikola Jokic: Denver’s MVP Banking on a Ring
Nikola Jokic, the reigning two-time MVP, secured the second-largest contract in NBA history—a five-year supermax extension valued at $272 million. Leading the Denver Nuggets to an NBA championship immediately after signing, Jokic’s deal showcases his exceptional talent and financial acumen.
1. Jaylen Brown: Celtics’ Staggering Supermax Deal
This summer, Jaylen Brown shattered records by signing the largest contract in NBA history—a five-year, $304 million supermax extension with the Boston Celtics. With an eye-watering annual salary of $60.8 million, Brown’s deal eclipses even Anthony Davis’ recent Lakers extension, making him the financial heavyweight in the league.
As we witness these mind-boggling contracts, one can’t help but wonder if the investment will pay off for the teams or if it will add fuel to the already heated debates around player salaries in the NBA. The game, both on and off the court, continues to evolve, and these contracts are a testament to the ever-changing landscape of professional basketball. Stay tuned for more game-changing deals as the NBA continues to rewrite its financial playbook.
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