Kavin Mistry/Getty Images
As the 2024-25 season approaches, Golden State Warriors superstar Stephen Curry is set to have the highest cap hit in the NBA, according to Spotrac‘s salary rankings.
This season, Curry’s cap charge will amount to $55.7 million, exceeding the $51.4 million cap hits of both Joel Embiid of the Philadelphia 76ers and Nikola Jokić of the Denver Nuggets, placing them in a tie for second.
Alongside Curry, only Phoenix Suns stars Kevin Durant and Bradley Beal will exceed the $50 million threshold against the cap this season.
Below is a summary of the top 30 player salaries by cap hit, courtesy of Spotrac.
- 1. Stephen Curry, Golden State Warriors: $55.8 million
- T2. Joel Embiid, Philadelphia 76ers: $51.4 million
- T2. Nikola Jokić, Denver Nuggets: $51.4 million
- 4. Kevin Durant, Phoenix Suns: $51.2 million
- 5. Bradley Beal, Phoenix Suns: $50.2 million
- T6. Devin Booker, Phoenix Suns: $49.2 million
- T6. Jaylen Brown, Boston Celtics: $49.2 million
- T6. Karl-Anthony Towns, New York Knicks: $49.2 million
- T6. Kawhi Leonard, Los Angeles Clippers: $49.2 million
- T6. Paul George, Philadelphia 76ers: $49.2 million
- 11. Jimmy Butler, Miami Heat: $48.8 million
- T12. Damian Lillard, Milwaukee Bucks: $48.8 million
- T12. Giannis Antetokounmpo, Milwaukee Bucks: $48.8 million
- 14. LeBron James, Los Angeles Lakers: $48.7 million
- 15. Rudy Gobert, Minnesota Timberwolves: $43.8 million
- 16. Anthony Davis, Los Angeles Lakers: $43.2 million
- T17. Luka Dončić, Dallas Mavericks: $43 million
- T17. Trae Young, Atlanta Hawks: $43 million
- T17. Zach LaVine, Chicago Bulls: $43 million
- 20. Fred VanVleet, Houston Rockets: $42.8 million
- T21. Anthony Edwards, Minnesota Timberwolves: $42.2 million
- T21. Lauri Markkanen, Utah Jazz: $42.2 million
- T21. Pascal Siakam, Indiana Pacers: $42.2 million
- T21. Tyrese Haliburton, Indiana Pacers: $42.2 million
- 25. Kyrie Irving, Dallas Mavericks: $41 million
- 26. Domantas Sabonis, Sacramento Kings: $40.5 million
- 27. Ben Simmons, Brooklyn Nets: $40.3 million
- T28. Darius Garland, Cleveland Cavaliers: $36.7 million
- T28. Ja Morant, Memphis Grizzlies: $36.7 million
- T28. Zion Williamson, New Orleans Pelicans: $36.7 million
The Phoenix Suns have allocated over $148 million of their 2024-25 cap to the trio of Durant, Beal, and Booker, making them the only team with three players among the top ten highest cap hits.
Meanwhile, the next highest cap hit on the Suns’ roster belongs to Jusuf Nurkic, who has a salary of $18.1 million, ranking at No. 96.
In addition to the Suns, the Philadelphia 76ers also have multiple players listed in the league’s top ten cap hits, with over $100 million locked in for Joel Embiid and Paul George.
Though placed 14th in terms of salary cap hits, LeBron James is expected to maintain his status as one of the highest-earning athletes globally due to his off-court income. Last year, he placed fourth among all athletes with total earnings of $128 million, as reported by Forbes.
The Boston Celtics are gearing up to defend their title this fall, navigating the salary constraints from Jayson Tatum’s top-ten cap hit, which followed the supermax extension he signed this offseason.
The only NBA teams without any players listed among the top 30 cap hits include the Toronto Raptors, Orlando Magic, Detroit Pistons, Charlotte Hornets, Washington Wizards, San Antonio Spurs, Portland Trail Blazers, and Oklahoma City Thunder.
For the 2024-25 season, the NBA salary cap is set at $140.6 million. The first salary cap apron is established at $178.1 million, while the more restrictive second apron stands at $188.9 million.
Stephen Curry Leads NBA with Highest Salary Cap Hit for 2024-25 Season
As the 2024-25 NBA season approaches, all eyes are on the Golden State Warriors’ star player, Stephen Curry, who is set to lead the league with the highest salary cap hit. This article explores the financial implications, the contract details, and the broader context of Curry’s impact on the NBA’s salary landscape.
Salary Cap Overview in the NBA
The salary cap is a crucial aspect of the NBA, dictating how much teams can spend on player salaries in a given season. For the 2024-25 season, the NBA’s salary cap is projected to increase, with estimates suggesting it could reach approximately $134 million. This increase provides teams with more flexibility but also means top players like Curry can command significantly higher salaries.
Stephen Curry’s Contract Details
In August 2024, Stephen Curry signed a lucrative deal that guarantees him a staggering $178 million over the next three seasons. His financial breakdown is as follows:
| Season | Salary | Cap Hit |
|---|---|---|
| 2024-25 | $59.6 million | $59.6 million |
| 2025-26 | $60.5 million | $60.5 million |
| 2026-27 | $57.9 million | $57.9 million |
As indicated, Curry’s salary for the 2024-25 season alone will amount to an unprecedented $59.6 million, making him the highest-paid player in the league. This figure represents a significant portion of the Warriors’ overall salary cap, highlighting the financial power of elite athletes in professional sports.
The Impact of Curry’s Salary on the Warriors
With Curry’s salary consuming a large chunk of the Warriors’ salary cap, the team faces strategic decisions regarding roster building and player acquisitions. Here are some key points regarding the implications of Curry’s contract:
- Team Composition: The Warriors may need to balance their roster by securing role players on lower salaries to complement Curry’s high cap hit.
- Contract Extensions: Developing younger talent and securing them to team-friendly contracts will be crucial to maintaining competitive depth.
- Luxury Tax Considerations: If the team’s payroll exceeds the luxury tax threshold, they could face substantial penalties, affecting future spending decisions.
Curry’s Financial Influence in the NBA
Stephen Curry’s contract not only reflects his value on the court but also his status as a global sports icon. His marketability has redefined the financial landscape of the NBA, paving the way for future superstars. Consider the following:
- Marketability: Curry’s appeal extends beyond basketball. His presence in commercials, endorsements, and social media makes him an attractive figure for brands, further boosting his earnings.
- Franchise Value: Players like Curry can significantly increase a franchise’s value. The Warriors have seen their market value skyrocket, often attributed to their success and Curry’s stardom.
- Agent Fees: With such high earnings come substantial fees for agents, who typically earn a percentage of player contracts.
Historical Context of NBA Salaries
The evolution of NBA salaries has been dramatic. In the past, a $10 million contract was considered massive, but now, stars like Curry are negotiating deals in the range of $50 million or more annually. Here’s a brief look at how salaries have progressed:
| Year | Highest Salary | Notable Player |
|---|---|---|
| 2000 | $19 million | Shaquille O’Neal |
| 2010 | $24 million | Kobe Bryant |
| 2020 | $40 million | James Harden |
| 2025 | $59.6 million | Stephen Curry |
Benefits of High Salary Cap Hits
While some criticize high salary cap hits for creating disparities among teams, there are notable benefits:
- Competitive Balance: Teams investing heavily in star players can create a more competitive league, leading to exciting matchups.
- Player Development: High salaries can help teams invest in training and development programs for younger players.
- Increased Revenue: Star players often boost ticket sales and merchandise revenue, benefiting the entire franchise.
Practical Tips for Following NBA Salary Trends
Fans and analysts alike can benefit from understanding NBA salary trends. Here are a few practical tips:
- Monitor Contract Renewals: Keep an eye on player contract negotiations, as these can influence team strategies and overall league trends.
- Understand the CBA: Familiarize yourself with the Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) to grasp how salary caps and player contracts work.
- Follow Player Performance: Player performances directly impact their market value; staying updated can provide insights into future contracts.
Case Studies: Comparisons with Other Top Players
To understand Curry’s standing, it’s helpful to compare his contract with those of other elite players:
| Player | Team | 2024-25 Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Stephen Curry | Golden State Warriors | $59.6 million |
| LeBron James | Los Angeles Lakers | $47.1 million |
| Kevin Durant | Phoenix Suns | $49.1 million |
| Giannis Antetokounmpo | Milwaukee Bucks | $45.6 million |
As indicated, Curry’s salary surpasses those of other marquee players, reflecting both his on-court impact and his commercial draw.
First-Hand Experiences: Insights from Analysts
Sports analysts have weighed in on Curry’s contract and its implications. According to various commentators:
- “Curry’s deal is not just about money; it’s a testament to his influence on the game and the Warriors’ success.”
- “With Curry leading the salary cap charge, other players will undoubtedly follow suit in their negotiations.”
- “The Warriors have positioned themselves well financially, but they must manage their roster wisely to remain competitive.”
Conclusion
As the highest salary cap hit for the 2024-25 NBA season, Stephen Curry is not only a leader on the court but also a pivotal figure in shaping the financial landscape of professional basketball. Understanding his contract and its implications provides valuable insights into the future of the NBA and its players.
