The NBA offseason is always a period of tremendous activity, and this year has been no exception. Teams are sparing no expense in securing their star players, with some of the most lucrative deals in the league's history being finalized. Foremost among these is the Boston Celtics' impending contract with Jayson Tatum, which is poised to redefine financial boundaries within the NBA.
Historic Deal for Jayson Tatum
The Boston Celtics are reportedly on the verge of finalizing a five-year, $314 million supermax contract with Jayson Tatum, set to commence in the 2025-26 season. This contract will not only secure Tatum's services for the foreseeable future but also make it the richest deal in the league's history, in terms of total value. With an average annual value (AAV) of approximately $62.8 million, Tatum's contract will surpass the previous record held by his teammate, Jaylen Brown.
Jaylen Brown and Other High-Earning Stars
Just last season, Jaylen Brown signed his own record-setting deal, a five-year, $285 million supermax that will start in the 2024-25 season. Brown's contract will make him the highest-paid player in the league for that year, featuring an AAV of $57.1 million. The arms race among NBA superstars doesn't stop there.
Paul George has also made headlines with a new four-year, $211.58 million contract with the Philadelphia 76ers, resulting in an AAV of $52.3 million. Meanwhile, Joel Embiid’s current contract commands $53.3 million annually, underscoring his status as one of the league's most valuable players.
Upcoming Extensions for Davis and Antetokounmpo
Anthony Davis and Giannis Antetokounmpo are also set to receive significant pay raises. Their three-year extensions, both starting in the 2025-26 season, will bring in more than $58 million annually for each player. This trend of escalating salaries is a testament to the NBA's booming business, driven by soaring broadcasting deals, global viewership, and merchandise sales.
The Jokic, Beal, and Edwards Deals
Nikola Jokic, the two-time MVP, signed a five-year, $276 million deal with the Denver Nuggets in 2022. Bradley Beal followed a similar path, securing a five-year, $251 million contract before being traded to the Phoenix Suns. Anthony Edwards, a rising star, extended his contract with the Minnesota Timberwolves for five years, amounting to $244 million after his second All-Star appearance and first All-NBA nod.
Notable Rookie Extensions
Young talents are also cashing in on their potential. Tyrese Haliburton signed a five-year rookie max extension with the Indiana Pacers, which increased to around $245 million after his All-NBA Third Team selection. This contractual trend underscores the high value teams place on locking in young stars who show promise and potential for growth.
Veteran Stars Hold Strong
Veteran players are not to be outdone. Devin Booker and Karl-Anthony Towns both inked four-year, $220 million extensions in 2022, while Stephen Curry secured a four-year, $215 million deal in August 2021. Joel Embiid and Kawhi Leonard continue to draw high salaries, solidifying their positions as top earners in the league.
Financial Balancing Act
The escalation in player salaries presents a fascinating dynamic for NBA teams. On one hand, it reflects the players' substantial contributions on the court and their marketability off it. On the other hand, maintaining championship contention while managing enormous payrolls requires a delicate balancing act by team managements.
This offseason is not just breaking financial records; it is setting new standards and expectations for player contracts. The impending deal with Tatum is a case in point, highlighting the Celtics' commitment to their star player and their willingness to invest heavily in their pursuit of success.
As we move closer to the next NBA season, these financial maneuvers underscore the evolving nature of the league, where top talent commands top dollar, and where the financial health of a franchise can hinge on a single signature. The figures are staggering, but they reflect the immense value these athletes bring, both on and off the court. Jayson Tatum is all set to begin this historic chapter with the Celtics, and the entire basketball world will be watching closely.