The NBA offseason is heating up as teams across the league are locking in their star players with some of the most lucrative deals in sports history. Leading the charge is the Boston Celtics, who are reportedly finalizing the largest contract ever with their standout player, Jayson Tatum. The Celtics plan to sign Tatum to a five-year, $314 million supermax contract, which will commence in the 2025-26 season. This contract not only solidifies Tatum's future with the franchise but also sets a new benchmark in the NBA for total contract value.
With an average annual value (AAV) of approximately $62.8 million, Tatum's deal surpasses the previous record held by his teammate, Jaylen Brown. Brown signed a five-year, $285 million supermax deal just last season, which is set to kick off in the 2024-25 season. Brown's contract will make him the highest-paid player in the league for that year with an AAV of $57.1 million.
Major Deals Across the League
While Boston has made headlines, other significant contracts have also been signed. Paul George secured a four-year, $211.58 million deal with the 76ers, boasting an AAV of $52.3 million. Meanwhile, Joel Embiid continues to command a handsome salary with an annual average of $53.3 million under his current deal.
All-Star players Anthony Davis and Giannis Antetokounmpo are also in line for substantial pay raises. Both are set to receive more than $58 million annually beginning in the 2025-26 season through their respective three-year extensions.
Next summer, Luka Doncic becomes eligible for a supermax extension, which could further redefine financial standards in the league. Notably, Nikola Jokic inked a five-year, $276 million contract with the Nuggets in 2022, while Bradley Beal signed a five-year, $251 million deal before being traded to the Suns.
New and Established Talent Commanding Big Bucks
Emerging talent has also cashed in this offseason. After his second All-Star appearance and first All-NBA nod, Anthony Edwards signed a five-year, $244 million extension with the Timberwolves. Tyrese Haliburton, owing to his All-NBA Third Team selection, saw his rookie max extension with the Pacers rise to around $245 million.
Established stars have not been left out in the financial windfall. Devin Booker and Karl-Anthony Towns each secured four-year, $220 million extensions in 2022, while Stephen Curry signed a four-year, $215 million deal in August 2021.
The Broader Implications
These escalating salaries reflect the NBA's booming business and its vibrant financial health. Various factors, such as massive broadcasting deals, increasing global viewership, and robust merchandise sales, have empowered teams to invest heavily in their foundational players.
High player salaries underscore their crucial on-court contributions, marketability, and off-court brand strength. However, maintaining championship contention while managing staggering payrolls becomes a sophisticated balancing act for teams. These financial commitments indicate a significant shift in how franchises value their talent and are prepared to risk high guarantees to retain competitive edges.
The current NBA offseason is thus not just about reinforcing rosters but also about redefining financial paradigms and setting new standards for player contracts. Amidst these transformations, Jayson Tatum is set to embark on a historic journey with the Boston Celtics, becoming the face of a financially evolving league.