With the NBA’s financial landscape evolving and contracts hitting historic highs, the 2024–25 season showcases a group of elite stars earning at the top of the league. Here’s a closer look at the 10 highest-paid players this season — and what they’re bringing to the court.
10. Karl-Anthony Towns – £38,380,524
Ringo Chiu / Shutterstock.com
IIn his debut season with the New York Knicks, Karl-Anthony Towns has proven his worth as a franchise cornerstone. Averaging 24.4 points and a career-best 12.8 rebounds, he’s been dominant on both ends. His combination of size, skill, and shooting makes him one of the league’s most complete big men. With the Knicks chasing their first title since 1973, Towns is leading the charge.
9. Jaylen Brown – £38,380,524
Photo: Kathy Hutchins / Shutterstock.com
Jaylen Brown remains the engine that powers the Boston Celtics, bringing consistency and effort every night. A key two-way player, he’s once again averaging over 20 points while defending top scorers. His record-breaking contract extension in 2023 reflects his all-around impact. As the Celtics stay competitive, Brown’s role continues to grow.
Despite injury setbacks, Kawhi Leonard returned midseason to deliver high-efficiency performances for the Clippers. A two-time Finals MVP, he remains one of the league’s best two-way forces when healthy. His stoic leadership and postseason experience are invaluable assets. The Clippers’ hopes rest on his ability to stay on the floor.
Paul George’s first year in Philadelphia was turbulent, with injuries limiting him to just 41 games. Though his numbers dipped, he remains a proven scorer and defender when healthy. The 76ers are banking on his veteran presence alongside Embiid. With another big contract year ahead, George faces pressure to bounce back strong.
6. Devin Booker – £38,380,524
Karolis Kavolelis / Shutterstock.com
Devin Booker has emerged as Phoenix’s offensive anchor, leading the team with 25.6 points per game. He continues to evolve as a playmaker, averaging over seven assists. Despite missing the playoffs, his leadership and scoring remain elite. Booker is locked in for the long term and remains the Suns’ most reliable star.
5. Kevin Durant – £38,889,697
Photo: Oleksiy Naumov / Shutterstock.com
Kevin Durant keeps adding to his legacy, passing 30,000 career points this season. At 35, he’s still an elite scorer, averaging 26.6 points on exceptional shooting splits. Though Phoenix underperformed, Durant delivered whenever healthy. As he enters a contract year, his future with the Suns will be a major storyline.
4. Bradley Beal – £39,159,065
All Pro Reels, CC BY-SA 2.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/2.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Bradley Beal’s first season with the Suns was marred by injuries and inconsistency. Appearing in just 53 games, he posted his lowest usage and impact in years. Despite solid shooting percentages, his value has come into question. With a no-trade clause and hefty salary, Beal’s contract complicates Phoenix’s path forward.
Once again, injuries limited Joel Embiid’s season, but his production remained strong when available. He averaged 23.8 points, 8.2 rebounds, and 4.5 assists despite multiple knee setbacks. The 76ers have committed long-term with a $300 million extension. For Philadelphia, keeping Embiid healthy is critical to contending.
2. Nikola Jokic – £40,104,426
Photo: Wiki Commons
Nikola Jokic continues to redefine the center position with an MVP-level campaign. Averaging a triple-double across 70 games, he remains Denver’s offensive maestro. His basketball IQ, passing, and scoring efficiency are unmatched. With Jokic at the helm, the Nuggets remain championship contenders year after year.
1. Stephen Curry – £43,493,748
Photo: A.RICARDO / Shutterstock.com
At 37, Stephen Curry still leads the league in salary — and continues to deliver. He’s averaged 24.5 points and 6 assists this season, maintaining his elite shooting and playmaking. Curry’s presence remains the foundation of the Warriors’ identity. With even bigger paychecks ahead, his legend only grows.