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20 Highest-Paid NBA Players For The 2025-26 Season

Welcome to the inside track on the NBA’s All-Star payroll. The 2025-26 season sees annual salaries hitting dizzying heights, with Steph Curry rising to nearly $60 million and a pack of elite big names not far behind.

But it’s not just about the numbers, it’s what those dollars represent. Curry remains the undisputed king of the cash court. A living legend still draining threes like he did a decade ago. Not to mention, superstars like Nikola Jokic, Joel Embiid, and Jayson Tatum, are also getting paid max dollars.

The Bucks’ Giannis, Mavericks’ Anthony Davis, and Warriors’ Jimmy Butler continue pressing that six-figure threshold. And let’s not overlook Devin Booker, who, fresh off negotiating the biggest annual extension in NBA history, still slots into the top 10.

Below is a money-minded ranking of the 20 highest salaries, and there will be some players who might feel lucky to be included in the list.

1. Stephen Curry - $59,606,817

San Francisco, California, USA; Golden State Warriors guard Stephen Curry (30) dribbles the ball up court in the first quarter against the Detroit Pistons at Chase Center. Mandatory Credit: David Gonzales-Imagn Images

Mandatory Credit: David Gonzales-Imagn Images

2024-25 Season Stats: 24.5 PPG, 4.4 RPG, 6.0 APG, 1.1 SPG, 0.4 BPG

Stephen Curry is aging like a fine wine, turning 37 this season yet still slicing through defenses with audacious step-backs and pinpoint threes. His $59.6M paycheck isn’t simply a reward for last season’s 24.5 PPG and 20th-place assist mark; it’s a salute to his transcendent role in the Warriors' DNA and the league’s shift toward superstar-first finances.

Being an 11-time All-Star and holding a career 43% from deep earns more than just admiration; it earns max money. Not to mention, Curry remains the linchpin of Golden State’s identity and the current face of the NBA.

Even if championship windows are tighter now, he’s a cultural and competitive anchor, mentoring young guards and keeping the franchise showroom-worthy. Whether he’s splashing from range or sparking explosive offense, Curry’s contract is a reflection of enduring excellence and business acumen.

2. Anthony Davis - $57,604,894

Mar 24, 2025; Brooklyn, New York, USA; Dallas Mavericks forward Anthony Davis (3) dribbles up court during the second half against the Brooklyn Nets at Barclays Center. Mandatory Credit: Vincent Carchietta-Imagn Images

Mandatory Credit: Vincent Carchietta-Imagn Images

2024-25 Season Stats: 24.7 PPG, 11.6 RPG, 3.5 APG, 1.2 SPG, 2.2 BPG

At nearly $58 million, Anthony Davis is earning every penny, and perhaps a few more with risk premiums built in. The 10-time All-Star quietly averaged a monster 24.7 points, 11.6 boards, plus elite rim protection at 2.2 blocks per night.

Mid-season, he survived a rollercoaster: a jaw-dropping torn retina, then a blockbuster trade to Dallas, and still chiseled out those numbers. That’s MVP-level production wrapped in grit. But let’s not gloss over the drama: his health scares and a detached retina surgery rippled concerns, yet he bounced back in time for summer prep.

Now, Dallas is banking serious coin on his ability to anchor their championship aspirations alongside Kyrie Irving and Cooper Flagg in what’s shaping up to be one of the more dangerous new trios in the West.

3. Giannis Antetokounmpo - $57,604,894

Milwaukee Bucks forward Giannis Antetokounmpo (34) in the second half against the Indiana Pacers at Gainbridge Fieldhouse.

Mandatory Credit: Trevor Ruszkowski-Imagn Images

2024-25 Season Stats: 30.4 PPG, 11.9 RPG, 6.5 APG, 0.9 SPG, 1.2 BPG

Giannis Antetokounmpo is getting paid like royalty because, well, he is royalty. He averaged a monstrous 30.4 points, 11.9 rebounds, and 6.5 assists, putting him firmly among the league’s elite tri-stat machines. With efficiency off the charts (60% FG) and MVP pedigree, his contract is the Bucks' frontline cornerstone, with leverage to reshape their future.

But there's a twist: whispers around his openness to leaving Milwaukee have surfaced. A player at his peak, still hungry, with a supermax waiting in the wings, he’s got the power to hold a franchise hostage. As the Bucks are expected to hit the negotiation table after a strange offseason, it's not just his salary on the line; it's the soul of the organization.

4. Joel Embiid - $55,224,526

Philadelphia 76ers center Joel Embiid (21) looks on during the third quarter against the Boston Celtics at Wells Fargo Center.

Mandatory Credit: Bill Streicher-Imagn Images

2024-25 Season Stats: 23.8 PPG, 8.2 RPG, 4.5 APG, 0.7 SPG, 0.9 BPG

Joel Embiid is pulling in just over $55 million after only appearing in 19 games. The superstar center can't stay on the court, and as he gets older, it won't get better. Embiid is clearly trying to stay healthy for the 76ers, but it hasn't worked out.

Sure, when Embiid is healthy, he’s an unstoppable force: low-post bully, mid-range sniper, rim protector. He’s got it all and is worth every penny when he plays. However, we don't see the former MVP staying available, which means the Sixers are in major cap trouble.

5. Nikola Jokic - $55,224,526

Mar 28, 2025; Denver, Colorado, USA; Denver Nuggets center Nikola Jokic (15) reacts in the third quarter against the Utah Jazz at Ball Arena. Mandatory Credit: Ron Chenoy-Imagn Images

Mandatory Credit: Ron Chenoy-Imagn Images

2024-25 Season Stats: 29.6 PPG, 12.7 RPG, 10.2 APG, 1.8 SPG, 0.6 BPG

Nikola Jokic’s contract is almost a steal given his absurd versatility. He led the league in efficiency (TS% around .622) and stacked nearly 30-13-10 stats, earning yet another All-Star starter nod. Some may call him the NBA's greatest passer from the post, and with MVP-caliber play at center, Denver’s paying for a generational hub.

Beyond the numbers, Jokic is the fulcrum of Denver’s offense; every pick, roll, or kick is funneled through him. His gravity forces defensive shifts, unlocking open shots for teammates. Keep an eye on how the Nuggets build around him: his value isn’t just salary-based, it’s organizational identity.

6. Kevin Durant - $54,708,608

Los Angeles, California, USA; Kevin Durant attends the game between the Golden State Valkyries and the LA Sparks at Crypto.com Arena. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images

Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images

2024-25 Season Stats: 26.6 PPG, 6.0 RPG, 4.2 APG, 0.8 SPG, 1.2 BPG

Kevin Durant’s deal is a nod to pure scoring genius. Even at 36, he’s still averaging almost 27 points per game on 52.7% shooting as an All-Star starter. When the Suns sputtered, Durant didn’t; his shotmaking remained elite, and that’s exactly why max pay still makes sense.

Now, Durant can prove himself in a new market. The Rockets are banking heavily on Durant to lead them to the promised land, and his legacy might be on the line now. Regardless, when it comes to money, he’s still the ultimate offensive weapon, and that’s worth every penny.

7T. Jayson Tatum - $54,126,450

Boston Celtics forward Jayson Tatum (0) reacts during the second quarter of a game against the Los Angeles Lakers at the TD Garden.

Mandatory Credit: Brian Fluharty-Imagn Images

2024-25 Season Stats: 26.8 PPG, 8.7 RPG, 6.0 APG, 1.1 SPG, 0.5 BPG

Jayson Tatum won't be playing next season, so he will be pocketing over $54 million to rehab a very serious injury. However, his first-team All-NBA season cemented his status, all while the Celtics reshaped its ceiling this offseason. That near-$54M paycheck tilts on his two-way elite production and consistent ascent.

The thing about Tatum: he is a top-10 player when healthy. Couple that with a Finals run behind him, and you’ve got a face of the franchise on both brand and basketball fronts. For the Celtics, this investment is about dominance and legacy, and Tatum deserves every penny he gets.

7T. Jimmy Butler - $54,126,450

May 12, 2025; San Francisco, California, USA; Golden State Warriors forward Jimmy Butler III (10) directs teammates during action against the Minnesota Timberwolves in the third quarter during game four of the second round for the 2025 NBA Playoffs at Chase Center. Mandatory Credit: Cary Edmondson-Imagn Images

Mandatory Credit: Cary Edmondson-Imagn Images

2024-25 Season Stats: 17.5 PPG, 5.4 RPG, 5.4 APG, 1.4 SPG, 0.3 BPG

Warriors' culture and winning lives in Jimmy Butler’s DNA. His solid two-way average and textbook late-game prowess reinforce why Golden State tied him to a high-level deal. He doesn’t just play; he commands games, and the Warriors want more of that next season.

Sure, durability and age creep worry some, but Butler remains a consummate winner. When the ball stops and the stakes rise, he isn't fading. He's exactly what the Warriors need with a closing title window: a vet commander with both wrist flick and intensity.

9. Bradley Beal - $53,666,270

Phoenix Suns guard Bradley Beal (3) against the Brooklyn Nets at Footprint Center.

Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

2024-25 Season Stats: 17.0 PPG, 3.3 RPG, 3.7 APG, 1.1 SPG, 0.5 BPG

Bradley Beal is earning big bucks, still over $53 million, thanks to his reputation as a top-tier scoring guard and veteran stability that is slowly waning. While his numbers dipped to 17 points per game in Phoenix, we will give him the benefit of the doubt and say that’s misleading: injuries and KD trade rumors skewed the rhythm.

Even so, his efficiency (nearly 50 FG%) and range remain lethal, and his veteran IQ provides calm in chaos. That's a premium the Suns banked on. Off the court, Beal’s contract carries buzz. Reports of a possible buyout have Clippers, Lakers, Warriors, and Bucks circling him next season.

So, essentially, you're paying for talent and optionality, a seasoned bucket-getter who could inject scoring wherever he lands. It's not just about past output, it’s cap flexibility and postseason upside.

10. Jaylen Brown - $53,142,264

Boston, Massachusetts, USA; Boston Celtics guard Jaylen Brown (7) reacts after stealing the ball and making the basket against the Indiana Pacers in the second quarter at TD Garden. Mandatory Credit: David Butler II-Imagn Images

Mandatory Credit: David Butler II-Imagn Images

2024-25 Season Stats: 22.2 PPG, 5.8 RPG, 4.5 APG, 1.2 SPG, 0.3 BPG

Jaylen Brown is clocking in with a hefty salary, and deservedly so. He carried a 22-point, 5-assist, near-6-rebound stat line across 63 games and threw down monstrous playoff shifts (22.1 & 7.1 per game) even with a partial meniscus tear. His blend of scoring, playmaking, and defense makes him Boston’s Swiss Army knife, and a former NBA Finals MVP only adds weight to that bag.

He’s also embracing leadership. With Tatum injured and out until 2026, Brown will need to galvanize the Celtics, orchestrating team meetings and swarming the boards; redefining himself as not just scorer-in-chief, but emotional anchor. Boston’s paying for more than stats; they’re buying grit, resilience, and blueprint-building as he leads their charge for another playoff run in Tatum's absence.

11. Karl‑Anthony Towns - $53,142,264

May 16, 2025; New York, New York, USA; New York Knicks center Karl-Anthony Towns (32) reacts during the first quarter of game six in the second round of the 2025 NBA Playoffs against the Boston Celtics at Madison Square Garden. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-Imagn Images

New York Knicks center Karl-Anthony Towns (32) reacts during the first quarter of game six in the second round of the 2025 NBA Playoffs.

Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-Imagn Images

2024-25 Season Stats: 24.4 PPG, 12.8 RPG, 3.1 APG, 1.0 SPG, 0.7 BPG

Karl-Anthony Towns hit max numbers right out of the gate with the New York Knicks: 24.4 PPG, 12.8 RPG, 3.1 APG across 72 games, even while logging 18 playoff games at 21.4 and 11.6 per night. That stat line confirms why he earned a four-year, $220M extension in Minnesota, and why New York traded Randle and DiVincenzo to build around him.

But it’s not all rosy. Towns battled finger and knee injuries in the playoffs and faced sharp criticism about his defensive mobility. With coach Mike Brown aboard, the Knicks are hunting for a Defensive Player of the Year to star beside him. Despite the caveats, this contract reflects a franchise betting big on his two-way star power, and control with a player option looming in 2027-28.

12. Devin Booker - $53,142,264

Jan 11, 2025; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Phoenix Suns guard Devin Booker (1) dribbles against the Utah Jazz during the second half at Footprint Center. Mandatory Credit: Joe Camporeale-Imagn Images

Mandatory Credit: Joe Camporeale-Imagn Images

2024-25 Season Stats: 25.6 PPG, 4.1 RPG, 7.1 APG, 0.9 SPG, 0.2 BPG

Devin Booker’s payday reflects his ascent from sharpshooter to team nucleus. He averaged nearly 27 points, carving defense with three-level scoring and dead-eye shooting, earning max money and extension security. As Phoenix leaned into a post-Durant rebirth, Booker’s consistency, especially from clutch range, has become the Suns’ betting chip.

Still, while symptoms of isolation show (with assist numbers plateauing), his two-way commitment isn’t in question. We don't expect the Suns to be very good next year, even if Jalen Green arrives in town. In short, his contract pays for scoring swagger and leadership he didn’t always have, regardless of team performance or expectation.

13. LeBron James - $52,627,153

Apr 30, 2025; Los Angeles, California, USA; Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (23) reacts during the first half in game five of first round for the 2025 NBA Playoffs at Crypto.com Arena. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-Imagn Images

Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (23) reacts during the first half in game five of first round for the 2025 NBA Playoffs

Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-Imagn Images

2024-25 Season Stats: 24.4 PPG, 7.8 RPG, 8.2 APG, 1.0 SPG, 0.6 BPG

At 40, LeBron James opted in for another year, now hiking to $52.6M, with the Lakers front office doing bureaucratic backflips before finally green-lighting it. His near-24/8/8 split isn’t vintage King-mode, but still damn good for setting up teammates and erasing younger athletes’ fear factor.

More fascinating are the off-court echo chambers: mind games with the Lakers brass, offseason LA luxury homes, and whispers of Cleveland closure. He’s playing chess while still dominating the pitch, and that attention alone justifies the headline salary.

14. Paul George - $51,666,090

Philadelphia 76ers forward Paul George (8) looks on against the Golden State Warriors during the second quarter at Wells Fargo Center.

Mandatory Credit: Bill Streicher-Imagn Images

2024-25 Season Stats: 16.2 PPG, 5.3 RPG, 4.3 APG, 1.8 SPG, 0.5 BPG

Paul George remains Philly’s two-way torque at a hefty $51.6M. George's two-way ceiling when healthy is impressive, though managing his legs in playoff crunch time remains a caution. Quite frankly, we see George having one foot in retirement already, or perhaps he isn't feeling the 76ers.

Philadelphia’s inheritance narrative drew on its veteran stability: a bit of playoff DNA to mesh with Embiid and Tyrese Maxey. Some NBA teams might have eyed him in March rumors, but Philly held strong to their core. Regardless, George is making far too much money for how much time he is spending on the court, and nobody can dispute that.

15. Kawhi Leonard - $50,000,000

San Francisco, California, USA; LA Clippers forward Kawhi Leonard (2) brings the ball up court against the Golden State Warriors during the third quarter at Chase Center. Mandatory Credit: Robert Edwards-Imagn Images

Mandatory Credit: Robert Edwards-Imagn Images

2024-25 Season Stats: 21.5 PPG, 5.9 RPG, 3.1 APG, 1.6 SPG, 0.5 BPG

Kawhi Leonard’s $50M payday is built on peak-win-or-die WCF gene: lockdown defense, season-quiet scoring, and Finals-winner pedigree. But injuries limit that gene expression; he’s more insurance policy than a guaranteed starter.

The Clippers know they're paying for access to his peak, not baseline. When Kawhi’s locked in offensively and defensively, LA is a title threat. But when he's sidelined, you feel it; his contract reflects championship hope, not baseline expectation, and that's truly a shame.

16. Donovan Mitchell - $48,787,676

May 13, 2025; Cleveland, Ohio, USA; Cleveland Cavaliers guard Donovan Mitchell (45) reacts during the second half of game five against the Indiana Pacers in the second round for the 2025 NBA Playoffs at Rocket Arena.

Mandatory Credit: Ken Blaze-Imagn Images

2024-25 Season Stats: 24.0 PPG, 4.5 RPG, 5.0 APG, 1.3 SPG, 0.2 BPG

Donovan Mitchell’s deal is Cleveland’s conscious splurge. He dropped 24 PPG, added 5 dimes and 4.5 boards over 71 games, earning his second First-Team selection amid team success. The Cavaliers' leadership portrayed him as the face of a top-seed franchise, and he delivered.

It’s not just about the box score: D-Mitch hit clutch heat checks, the kind that bail teams in May. His injury resistance added value; his playoff 35-point explosions flicked the fuse on summer swagger. Simply put: Cleveland found their guy and rewarded the anchor, but second-round exits won't sit well with the franchise for too long.

17. Zach LaVine - $47,499,660

Mar 10, 2025; Sacramento, California, USA; Sacramento Kings guard Zach LaVine (8) dribbles the ball up the court against the New York Knicks during the third quarter at Golden 1 Center. Mandatory Credit: Sergio Estrada-Imagn Images

Mandatory Credit: Sergio Estrada-Imagn Images

2024-25 Season Stats: 23.3 PPG, 4.3 RPG, 4.2 APG, 0.8 SPG, 0.2 BPG

Zach LaVine’s nearly $47.5M reflects consistent scoring flair, 23.3 points a night, respectable playmaking, and highlight burst. The Sacramento Kings’ offense leaned on his gravity even as the roster fizzled in crunch time.

But it’s clear: they’re paying for upside, not depth. LaVine’s durability faltered in the playoffs, raising questions. With a new coach learning the ropes, SacTown is banking on this payoff hitting full stride. If it doesn't, a blow-up is coming, but that won't affect LaVine's guaranteed dollars.

18. Evan Mobley - $46,394,100

Jan 9, 2025; Cleveland, Ohio, USA; Cleveland Cavaliers forward Evan Mobley (4) stands on the court in the first quarter against the Toronto Raptors at Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse. Mandatory Credit: David Richard-Imagn Images

Mandatory Credit: David Richard-Imagn Images

2024-25 Season Stats: 18.5 PPG, 9.3 RPG, 3.2 APG, 0.9 SPG, 1.6 BPG

Evan Mobley is earning $46.4M as Cleveland’s two-way prototype. Nearly 19/9/3 with 1.6 blocks shows why he's a defensive anchor and draft-night payoff. His rim protection and switchable length justified the mega rookie contract, especially when he won Defensive Player of the Year.

With Mitchell hogging headlines, Mobley’s drawn praise quietly, he’s the interior match for perimeter firepower. The Cavaliers built their roster spine around this second-year pivot, and paid accordingly. Hopefully, Mobley can reach a different level when it comes to scoring the ball because he has that capability.

19. Jamal Murray - $46,394,100

Nov 25, 2024; Denver, Colorado, USA; Denver Nuggets guard Jamal Murray (27) dribbles the ball in the first quarter against the New York Knicks at Ball Arena. Mandatory Credit: Ron Chenoy-Imagn Images

Mandatory Credit: Ron Chenoy-Imagn Images

2024-25 Season Stats: 21.4 PPG, 3.9 RPG, 6.0 APG, 1.4 SPG, 0.5 BPG

Denver re-signed Jamal Murray to balance Nikola Jokic a few seasons ago. He chipped in solid numbers, often feast-or-famine, but delicious when he’s hot. His championship pedigree (2023 run) let ownership gamble on continuity.

Denver’s championship blueprint demands Murray's riddles resolve: stay healthy and consistent, but the Nuggets faithful will expect more from the team's second-best player. The Nuggets added Bruce Brown, Cam Johnson, and Jonas Valanciunas, so perhaps Murray will be able to play more freely without carrying a similar burden as last season to warrant the hefty contract.

20. Cade Cunningham - $46,394,100

Apr 24, 2025; Detroit, Michigan, USA; Detroit Pistons guard Cade Cunningham (2) dribbles in the second half against the New York Knicks during game three of first round for the 2024 NBA Playoffs at Little Caesars Arena. Mandatory Credit: Rick Osentoski-Imagn Images

Mandatory Credit: Rick Osentoski-Imagn Images

2024-25 Season Stats: 26.1 PPG, 6.1 RPG, 9.1 APG, 1.0 SPG, 0.8 BPG

Cade Cunningham's max deal indicates Detroit's time machine: future MVP potential locked early. He averaged monster numbers as a first-time All-Star and All-NBA Third Team member, signaling the emergence of a lead horse.

The Pistons are building around his full-strength multi-skill set, pick-and-roll play, paint burst, and defensive upside. Even with some growing pains in the playoffs by the team, the contract for Cade is based on corner-turning star power.

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