NBA player salaries reach new heights for 2026-27 season

The NBA is experiencing an era of economic growth driven by new television deals, international expansion, and an increasing salary cap. For the 2026-27 season, Stephen Curry leads the league as the highest-paid player with a contract worth approximately $62.6 million.

Following Curry, Nikola Jokic and Jayson Tatum rank as the second and third highest earners, with salaries of approximately $59 million and $58.5 million, respectively. The league's rising financial landscape is also impacting roster management, as seen with the Minnesota Timberwolves' interest in pursuing Dalton Knecht via a two-way contract after he became an unrestricted free agent following his release by the Los Angeles Lakers.