Stephen Curry tops NBA salaries for 2026–27

The 2026–27 NBA season tipped off Tuesday, with the New York Knicks looking to defend the championship they captured last year, ending a 53-year wait for another title. Their Finals victory over the San Antonio Spurs provided one of the defining storylines of the previous campaign.

Away from the court, player salaries remain a major talking point. Stephen Curry continues to lead the NBA’s earnings rankings, following his takeover from LeBron James in 2025–26, which ended the Lakers superstar’s eleven-year run at the top.

James, meanwhile, is preparing for a record-breaking 24th NBA season. After eight years in Los Angeles, he has joined the Philadelphia 76ers on a two-year deal reportedly worth around $8 million, a substantial reduction from his previous $53 million salary.

The figures, compiled from ESPN, Basketball Reference and other sources, cover NBA team contracts only, excluding endorsements and advertising income.