NBA Highest-Paid Centers: Find the hardwood’s NBA highest-paid centers for the 2023–24 season and evaluate their league-altering effects.
There have been substantial changes to the centre position’s function. Centres, formerly seen as the game’s dominant force, are now expected to be more adaptable than ever, fusing classic post-play techniques with more contemporary abilities like three-point shooting and playmaking. The financial aspects of the sport have changed along with the game. This article examines the NBA’s financial landscape and the NBA highest-paid centers for the 2023–2024 season.
NBA players who are well compensated and skilful are altering the position’s role in the 2023–24 season. These players, who range from stalwart All-Stars to up-and-comers, are not only dominating attention on the court but also landing rich contracts that demonstrate their importance to their respective clubs.
10 NBA Highest-Paid Centers for the 2023–24 Season
Here are the highest-paid centers in the NBA, which clearly indicates that larger players matter in today’s game based on the highest-paid power forwards in the NBA.
1. Nikola Jokic – $47,607,350
With a salary of $47,607,350 for the 2023–24 season, Nikola Jokic will share the top centre spot with Joel Embiid, which is a tribute to his meteoric rise in the NBA. Jokic’s deal reflects not just his extraordinary talent but also his vital position with the Denver Nuggets as the current NBA champion and Finals MVP. As a centre, he plays with an innovative style that combines superior passing ability, court awareness, and scoring prowess. Due to Jokic’s flexibility, the Nuggets can use him as a point centre to direct their offence, and his amazing ability to plan plays from the high post has turned Denver into a contender.
The Serbian was unquestionably the best player in the world in 2023, averaging 24.5 points, 11.8 rebounds, and 9.8 assists per game while successfully guiding Denver to the Finals. Jokic’s transformation from a top-tier player earning a contract equivalent to the best in the league to a relatively unknown international prospect is an illustration of how basketball has changed and how much emphasis is now put on multifaceted big men. Next season, Denver’s go-to player will continue to showcase his superstar skills.
You might also be interested in reading this: Which NBA Power Forwards Are The Best Since 2000?
2. Joel Embiid – $47,607,350
Due to both his great talent and his crucial role within the Philadelphia 76ers organisation, Joel Embiid will be the highest-paid centre in the NBA in 2023–24. Embiid, who earns a staggering $47,607,350 annually, is not only one of the league’s best players but also a key component in the Philadelphia 76ers’ quest for a title. On both sides of the court, his mix of size, talent, and adaptability makes him a force to be reckoned with. The centre was named league MVP and earned his second consecutive scoring crown last season (33.1 points per game).
Due to his high contract, Embiid is under tremendous expectation to perform admirably consistently during the regular season as well as in the postseason. The 76ers are taking a calculated risk by largely relying on Embiid, and they anticipate him to be a game-changer in their pursuit of an NBA championship. Joel has to keep scoring at a high level to demonstrate that he is still one of the best five players in the world even without James Harden, who is set to leave the team.
3. Rudy Gobert – $41,000,000
Rudy Gobert’s $41,000,000 salary for the NBA season of 2023–2024 ensures his place as one of the league’s best defensive centres. Despite the fact that he may not be the highest-paid or even the most dominant centre in the league, his contract honours his unique ability to be the best on the defensive end. Gobert had a rookie year with the Minnesota Timberwolves last year, averaging 11.6 rebounds and 1.4 blocks per game.
Intriguingly, Gobert’s ranking as one of the highest-paid centres demonstrates the NBA’s understanding of the value of defensive specialists in a game that frequently prioritises scoring. His deal serves as a reminder that players are valued and paid for their efforts when they thrive in defensive statistics like blocks and rebounds. Despite frequent criticism directed at him for his contract and his lack of actual offensive talent, Gobert is still regarded as one of the top defenders in the world.
4. Anthony Davis – $40,600,080
Even though Anthony Davis is recognised for having the ability to play both the power forward and centre positions, his contract reflects his substantial value as a critical interior presence for the Los Angeles Lakers. Thanks to his unique blend of shot-blocking, rebounding, and scoring abilities, Davis is a game-changing force on both ends of the court. He adds dynamism to the Lakers’ starting lineup with his ability to protect the rim and score from mid-range and beyond the arc.
His pay reflects both his ability to adjust to the NBA’s changing playing style as well as his contributions as a conventional centre. The Lakers’ dedication to creating a championship-calibre team around Davis and LeBron James can be shown in his deal, which shows that he is not only a defensive anchor but also an important offensive option. The money was well spent if the big man could produce stats equal to those from the previous season (25.9 points, 12.5 rebounds per game).
5. Bam Adebayo – $32,600,060
Bam Adebayo’s deal shows that the Miami Heat recognise his enormous potential and the crucial role he plays for their team, even if he may not attract the same outrageous amounts as some of his colleagues. His defensive adaptability, shot-blocking skills, and mastery of the pick-and-roll game define Adebayo’s style of play. Bam Adebayo was the most significant component in Miami’s march to the Finals last season, second only to Jimmy Butler.
In addition, Bam Adebayo’s ranking among the highest-paid centres highlights how the NBA is evolving and how players like him are increasingly recognised as the position’s future. While he might not yet be as well-known as other veterans, the Heat’s decision to sign him to a deal shows that they believe he has what it takes to become a cornerstone of the organisation. Adebayo has the credentials to be one of the top five centres in the league thanks to his two All-Star and four All-Defensive Team selections.
6. Deandre Ayton – $32,459,438
For the 2023–20 season, Deandre Ayton, one of the highest-paid centres in the NBA, would get compensation of $32,459,438. Although it may not be as lavish as some of the finest veterans in the league, his contract demonstrates the Portland Trail Blazers’ belief in his potential and his rising impact on their squad. Ayton, who will earn more than $32 million from the franchise next season, was the reason Portland was happy to part ways with superstar Damian Lillard.
Along with Scoot Henderson, Anfernee Simons, and Shaedon Sharpe, Ayton’s deal represents an investment in the future of the Trail Blazers as he develops as a player, establishing his spot among the highest-paid centres in the league. Ayton should honour Portland by being named to the All-Star Team the following season.
7. Domantas Sabonis – $28,000,000
Domantas Sabonis’ contract shows the value of his diverse skill set and his role as a crucial player for his club, even if it may not be as profitable as some of the top earners. Sabonis is renowned for his great playmaking abilities as a centre, scoring variety in the post, and rebounding prowess. The Sacramento Kings centre led the team to the playoffs in 2023 with averages of 19.1 points, 12.3 rebounds, and 7.3 assists.
In terms of compensation and his changing role on the court, Sabonis continues to stand out as one of the highest-paid centres in the league. Sabonis, a modern-day big who can run and pass, is in the discussion for becoming a top-five centre in the world and his pay is relatively team-friendly when considering that. The 6’11” big man starts at centre even though he can play the power forward position.
8. Brook Lopez – $25,000,000
The Milwaukee Bucks’ decision to extend Brook Lopez’s contract shows how much they value his contributions to their championship-winning squad. Lopez is well known for his abilities to block shots, hit three-pointers, and defend in the paint. His adaptable style enables him to defend the rim while also opening up the floor on offence. Even at 35 years old and with 15 years of experience, Lopez’s pay demonstrates the worth of seasoned centres who can thrive in a variety of game-related areas.
Lopez shot 37.4% from three-point range for 15.9 points, 6.7 rebounds, and 2.5 blocks per game. The veteran was a contender for Defensive Player of the Year in 2023 thanks to the big man’s outstanding defence and shot blocking. Even though he is growing older, the former No. 10 overall choice remains a strong defensive presence in the paint and may be worth the $25 million contract in the long run.
9. Draymond Green – $22,321,429
Draymond Green, who will make $22,321,429 for the 2023–24 season, may not fit the mould of a typical centre, but the Golden State Warriors view him as a special and priceless component. His deal demonstrates the Warriors’ understanding of his crucial function as a versatile centre who has several positive effects on the game. Even as he approaches 34 years old, his basketball IQ, leadership skills, and capacity to guard numerous positions make him an invaluable asset for the Warriors.
The fact that Draymond Green is among the highest-paid centres shows how the position has evolved in the modern NBA. His contract underlines the league’s shift towards positionless basketball and the significance of players who can have an impact on the game beyond merely scoring, even though he may not be a traditional centre. Due to the fact that Golden State paid Green rather than keeping Jordan Poole, the veteran will play a significant role in the new “small ball” lineup that includes youngster Chris Paul.
10. Myles Turner – $20,975,000
If Myles Turner achieves his goal of becoming an All-Star in 2024, his pay will be more than acceptable to the Indiana Pacers organisation. After winning two blocks championships and averaging 2.3 blocks per game the previous season, the big man is earning approximately $21 million in 2024 and is one of the finest shot blockers in the NBA. Turner is a typical centre who is also shooting 35.3% from distance at the same time.
Although he may not score as much as some other centres, the Pacers value his defensive efforts and shot blocking skills. Turner continues to stand out among the highest-paid centres, especially for his exceptional defensive skills and the influence they have on the game. The Pacers must figure out a method to keep Tyrese Haliburton, their franchise player, growing because the rest of the club will do the same.
These are the 10 NBA Highest-Paid Centers for the 2023–24 Season. Let us know your thoughts in the comment section below.
