Image Source: NBA
[Saba Sports News] In the NBA, top players often secure the biggest contracts, with added financial incentives for accolades such as All-NBA selections or winning end-of-season awards. This season, the list of the top 15 highest-paid NBA players was dominated by seasoned veterans, yet only Rudy Gobert reached the Conference Finals.
Here’s a look at their earnings:
1. Stephen Curry – $51.9 million
2. Kevin Durant – $47.6 million
3. Nikola Jokic – $47.6 million
4. LeBron James – $47.6 million
5. Joel Embiid – $47.6 million
6. Bradley Beal – $46.7 million
7. Kawhi Leonard – $45.6 million
8. Paul George – $45.6 million
9. Giannis Antetokounmpo – $45.6 million
10. Damian Lillard – $45.6 million
11. Jimmy Butler – $45.1 million
12. Klay Thompson – $43.2 million
13. Rudy Gobert – $41.0 million
14. Fred VanVleet – $40.8 million
15. Anthony Davis – $40.6 million
Fred VanVleet was the only one among them not to make the playoffs. The Warriors’ Stephen Curry and Klay Thompson exited during the Play-In round, while Nikola Jokic was the only player besides Gobert to advance beyond the first round. This highlights a playoff landscape where top-heavy contracts don’t necessarily translate to deeper playoff runs.
Rudy Gobert, often criticized for his hefty contract and perceived one-dimensionality, proved his worth by helping lead his team to the Conference Finals for the first time. His five-year, $205 million contract, awarded by the Utah Jazz, has been under scrutiny, particularly due to his limited offensive skillset. However, his defensive prowess earned him another Defensive Player of the Year award, his fourth, tying him for the most in NBA history.
Gobert’s impact was particularly noticeable in the Wolves’ recent playoff success, including a Game 7 performance where he showcased his defensive versatility and contributed offensively with key fallaway jumpers. While he couldn’t completely contain Nikola Jokic, his efforts were crucial in his team’s victory.
This playoff run, Gobert is averaging 12.2 points, 10.9 rebounds, 1.7 assists, 1.0 steals, and 1.1 blocks, validating the significant investment made in him and possibly redefining his role and perception as the Timberwolves continue their postseason journey.