NBA Stars Are Overpaid: The $1 Billion Question

The NBA’s money game is heating up, and the numbers are getting crazier. With stars like Steph Curry set to earn a jaw-dropping $62.6 million from the Golden State Warriors in 2026-27, and Jayson Tatum signing a massive $314 million deal with the Celtics, the debate is on whether these NBA stars are overpaid. But brace yourself: the next five years could redefine “mind-boggling.”

NBA Stars Are Overpaid: The $1 Billion Question

With a new broadcasting contract set to inflate the salary cap by the maximum 10% annually, we’re about to see an explosion in superstar deals like never before. Buckle up, because this ride will be wild.

How High Can They Go? A Look Ahead

Currently, the NBA salary cap sits at $140.6 million. Maximum player salaries range between $35.1 million to $49.2 million, depending on experience. But the future? It’s all about leveraging those limits. Some stars, like Curry, already surpass the max by re-signing at 105% of their previous earnings. And that’s just a taste of what’s to come.

This list of future contracts excludes recent big signings such as Tyrese Haliburton and Anthony Edwards, and focuses on the bold predictions ahead. Like Devin Booker, who may opt for a $418 million five-year deal rather than waiting until 2028. Or young guns coming off rookie deals, ready to jump from a 25% to 30% cap.

Big Moves and Big Money: The Contenders

1. Joel Embiid: The Philadelphia 76ers bet big this offseason by adding Paul George and re-signing Tyrese Maxey. But if Joel Embiid feels neglected, despite his owed $165.7 million, he could opt-out and re-sign for an eye-popping $192.9 million over three years. If he waits, he might secure four years for $266.7 million—but does he trust Philly to cough it up?
2. Giannis Antetokounmpo, Anthony Davis & Nikola Jokić: These All-Stars are poised for massive paydays. They can extend in 2027 for $212.2 million over three years, with the potential to push higher if they delay their deals. For instance, Davis might hit $293.4 million, while Giannis and Jokić could skyrocket to $379.9 million over five years.
3. De’Aaron Fox: Fox could secure a $228.6 million deal over four years if he keeps up his All-NBA performance. But if he delays, his payday could climb to $345.3 million over five years. Timing is everything!
4. Devin Booker: One of the youngest on this list, Booker is already eyeing a massive $233.4 million extension. The Phoenix Suns star could extend his reign until the 2028-29 season, with a starting salary of $72 million, riding the 10% annual cap increase wave.
5. Paolo Banchero and Chet Holmgren: These young stars are gearing up for massive rookie-scale extensions. Both Banchero and Holmgren could see their contracts soar to $296 million if they bag MVP or All-NBA honors.

Why All This Matters

The NBA’s financial future looks set for a monumental shift. But there’s a catch—the Over-38 Rule. It can limit some players, like Curry, from locking in more than three-year deals. It’s a game of strategy, timing, and pure luck. Will these stars wait for the bigger pot, or snatch up what’s on the table? One thing’s clear: the next five years will shape NBA history.