Determining which NBA players have the best contracts is challenging. Excluding two-way contracts, which pay around $579,000 for a full season, NBA salaries can range from $1.2 million for rookies to $49.2 million for veterans with over a decade of experience. Some players even exceed that maximum, such as Stephen Curry, who earns $55.8 million with the Golden State Warriors. Considering the global attention Curry brings to the team, he’s a great value at that price. During the NBA offseason, there’s often a frenzy of signings and trades, but not all contracts offer the same value. Some deals stand out as smart investments for teams aiming to optimise their rosters while managing costs effectively.

This list will rank the players based on their team value rather than their potential.

10 Best NBA Contracts in 2024

The list is based on the BleacherReports analysis, rather than a purely objective or statistical ranking. It’s meant to spark discussion and highlight contracts that are particularly noteworthy or beneficial to their respective teams. Here is the list:

In a league where superstar contracts often dominate headlines, these 12 deals prove that value can be found at every level. Whether through savvy contract negotiations, taking advantage of market conditions, or simply betting on the right player at the right time, these NBA teams have positioned themselves well for the future. As the salary cap continues to rise, these contracts will only become more valuable, highlighting the importance of smart financial management in building a championship contender.

Best NBA Contracts

1. Aaron Wiggins

Aaron Wiggins might not be a household name, but his impact on the Oklahoma City Thunder is undeniable. Wiggins played 78 regular-season games, shooting an impressive 49.2% from beyond the arc. His five-year, $47 million deal is structured to decrease over time, making it an even better value as the salary cap rises. By the 2028-29 season, his contract will account for just 3.9% of the cap, a steal for a player of his calibre.

2. Jonathan Isaac

Jonathan Isaac’s new contract with the Orlando Magic is a masterclass in risk management. After multiple leg injuries, the Magic renegotiated his deal, giving him $25 million for the 2024-25 season and an extension worth $59 million over four years. The catch? Only $8 million is guaranteed in 2026-27, with none promised in the final two years. If Isaac stays healthy, the Magic will have a top-tier defender on a team-friendly deal; if not, they maintain financial flexibility.

3. Aaron Nesmith

The Indiana Pacers have found a gem in Aaron Nesmith, who signed a three-year, $33 million contract extension. Nesmith has emerged as one of the NBA’s top role-playing wings, contributing significantly on both ends of the floor. His defensive prowess and ability to stretch the floor make him an invaluable asset for the Pacers, especially at just $11 million per season.

4. Donte DiVincenzo

Donte DiVincenzo joined the New York Knicks on a four-year, $49.9 million contract. The versatile guard quickly proved his worth, stepping up in the postseason with averages of 17.8 points per game on 42.5% shooting. As the Knicks navigate injuries and lineup changes, DiVincenzo’s ability to fill multiple roles makes his contract one of the best values in the league.

5. Herbert Jones III

Herbert Jones III is a defensive powerhouse for the New Orleans Pelicans. His four-year, $53.8 million contract is a bargain for a player who earned first-team All-Defensive honours and shot 41.8% from three-point range last season. As the salary cap increases, Jones’ deal will only become more team-friendly, making him one of the best defensive bargains in the NBA.

6. Grayson Allen

Grayson Allen led the NBA in three-point shooting last season, and the Phoenix Suns rewarded him with a four-year, $70 million extension. Despite a disappointing postseason, Allen’s ability to space the floor and contribute as a secondary playmaker makes his contract a valuable asset for the Suns, especially with their hefty payroll.

7. Max Strus

Max Strus signed a four-year, $62.3 million deal with the Cleveland Cavaliers, and he quickly became a crucial part of their rotation. Starting 70 games last season, Strus averaged 12.2 points and 4.0 assists per game. With the salary cap expected to climb, his $15.9 million annual salary is a bargain for a starter on a playoff team.

8. Payton Pritchard

Payton Pritchard signed a four-year, $30 million extension with the Boston Celtics, a deal that now looks like a steal. Pritchard played an essential role in the Celtics’ championship run, increasing his minutes and scoring output. As Boston navigates a loaded payroll, Pritchard’s contract provides excellent value for a key rotation player.

9. Caleb Martin

The Philadelphia 76ers snagged Caleb Martin on a four-year, $35 million contract, adding a proven playoff performer to their roster. Martin, who played a crucial role in the Miami Heat’s 2022-23 NBA Finals run, brings valuable experience and shooting to a contending Sixers team, making his contract one of the best deals of the offseason.

10. Deni Avdija

Deni Avdija four-year, $55 million contract is already paying dividends for the Portland Trail Blazers. After acquiring him from the Washington Wizards, the Blazers are excited about his potential. At 23, Avdija is still developing, but his impact on both ends of the floor makes him a valuable long-term asset for Portland.