The NBA’s 2023-24 season brings forth a roster of shooting guards who not only command the court with their on-court prowess but also dominate the financial scene with lucrative contracts. This comprehensive article delves into the realm of professional basketball economics by spotlighting the 10 highest-paid shooting guards of the season.
- Honorable Mentions
- Anfernee Simons – $25,892,857
- Jaylen Brown – $28,508,929
- Tyler Herro – $29,000,000
- 10. Jordan Poole – $30,151,786
- 9. C.J. McCollum – $33,333,333
- 8. Desmond Bane – $34,005,250
- 7. Donovan Mitchell – $35,410,310
- 6. Anthony Edwards – $35,500,000
- 5. James Harden – $35,640,000
- 4. Zach LaVine – $43,031,940
- 3. Paul George – $48,787,763
- 2. Devin Booker – $49,700,000
- 1. Bradley Beal – $50,203,930
From perennial All-Stars to rising talents, these players not only epitomize skill and athleticism but also serve as beacons of the modern NBA’s business dynamics. Explore the intriguing intersection of talent, marketability, and financial investment as we break down the contracts and contributions that have propelled these shooting guards to the upper echelons of the league’s earnings chart.
After seeing the highest-paid point guards in the NBA, it is time to focus on the highest-paid shooting guards across the league. While some of these players might be overpaid due to their lack of real impact on the court, some of these players are deserving of their money as they are at the top of their games. Here are the 10 highest-paid shooting guards in the NBA for the 2023-24 season.
Honorable Mentions
Anfernee Simons – $25,892,857
2022-23 Stats: 21.1 PPG, 2.6 RPG, 4.1 APG, 0.7 SPG, 0.2 BPG
Despite being only 24 years old, Simons’ impact on the Portland Trail Blazers has been steadily growing. During the 2021-22 season, he demonstrated his scoring ability by averaging 17.3 points, 2.6 rebounds, and 3.9 assists per game and the hype started building around him. This past season, Simons improved by posting 21.1 points and 4.1 assists per game.
His offensive game is marked by his three-point shooting, connecting on 38.7% of his attempts from beyond the arc for his career, and his ability to provide instant offense and contribute in spurts shows he could be a part of the future in Portland. Even at his young age, Simons is making over $25 million next season and has a chance to make a bigger name for himself.
Jaylen Brown – $28,508,929
2022-23 Stats: 26.6 PPG, 6.9 RPG, 3.5 APG, 1.1 SPG, 0.4 BPG
Jaylen Brown signed the largest deal in NBA history this summer and while critics are continuing to point to the player’s inability to handle the ball with his left hand or perform in the brightest moments in the playoffs, the Boston Celtics had no choice but to pay him. After all, Brown is only 26 years old.
The core of Brown and superstar Jayson Tatum is intact for the foreseeable future and that means there will be pressure on the stars to perform. Brown had himself the best season of his career by averaging 26.6 points per game, but he must improve to justify the supermax dollars he will be making. However, in 2024, Brown will “only” be making $28.5 million.
Tyler Herro – $29,000,000
2022-23 Stats: 20.1 PPG, 5.4 RPG, 4.2 APG, 0.8 SPG, 0.2 BPG
If only Tyler Herro remained healthy for the better part of the season, instead of missing the NBA Finals and essentially confirming who would become NBA champions at the end of the year. Averaging 20.7 points, 5.0 rebounds, and 4.0 assists per game in the 2021-22 season, Herro displayed an impressive all-around game that contributed significantly to his team’s success and became one of the best shooting guards in the world.
Since then, Herro’s reputation as a sharpshooter was underscored by his 38.3% three-point shooting accuracy over his four-year career. His scoring outbursts, including multiple 30-point games, highlighted his ability to take over games offensively. Additionally, Herro’s evolution as a playmaker and facilitator added another layer to his game, as he demonstrated an improved ability to create opportunities for his teammates.
As Herro is one of the hottest trade prospects in the NBA right now, the Heat might trade the 23-year-old for a superstar of Damian Lillard’s caliber and that would make the NBA landscape more than interesting.
10. Jordan Poole – $30,151,786
2022-23 Stats: 20.4 PPG, 2.7 RPG, 4.5 APG, 0.8 SPG, 0.3 BPG
Jordan Poole’s ascent to becoming one of the highest-paid players in the NBA is a testament to his rapid development, scoring proficiency, and significant role within the Golden State Warriors.
Poole’s growth trajectory has been remarkable, transforming from a relatively unheralded prospect to a vital contributor for his team after averaging 18.5 points, 3.4 rebounds, and 4.0 assists per game. This offensive output underscores his ability to create shots, both for himself and his teammates.
However, in the 2022-23 season, Poole was actually somewhat of a hindrance to team chemistry because he managed to alienate himself from the locker room leader, Draymond Green, and did not possess the right attitude for a championship team.
Multiple times in the playoffs, Poole was benched for below-average play and he hardly showed the focus to get back into the game. Even if Poole was traded this summer, his potential is there to see and he will make over $30 million next year.
9. C.J. McCollum – $33,333,333
2022-23 Stats: 20.9 PPG, 4.4 RPG, 5.7 APG, 0.9 SPG, 0.5 BPG
As a skilled offensive shooting guard, C.J. McCollum’s offensive repertoire is marked by his adept mid-range shooting and three-point prowess. Averaging 20.9 points, 4.4 rebounds, and 5.7 assists per game during the 2022-23 season, he not only shoulders a significant portion of his team’s scoring load but also showcases his playmaking abilities as the primary playmaker for the New Orleans Pelicans.
McCollum’s reliability in clutch situations, often seen making critical shots in crucial moments, solidifies his status as a player who thrives under pressure and that is the main reason why the shooting guard is making the big bucks.
His ability to complement his young teammates (Brandon Ingram and Zion Williamson) and excel in high-pressure scenarios contributes to his overall impact, underscoring his position among the NBA’s best shooting guards.
8. Desmond Bane – $34,005,250
2022-23 Stats: 21.5 PPG, 5.0 RPG, 4.4 APG, 1.0 SPG, 0.4 BPG
Desmond Bane’s emergence as one of the highest-paid players in the NBA is a testament to his rapid development into a valuable shooting guard with a unique skill set. Despite being a relatively young player at 25 years old, Bane’s impact on the Memphis Grizzlies has been substantial.
During the 2022-23 season, he showcased his three-point shooting prowess, connecting on an impressive 40.8% of his attempts from beyond the arc.
Bane’s defensive contributions further elevate his value. With a tenacious playing style, he averages 0.9 steals per game, showcasing his ability to disrupt opponents and generate turnovers.
His versatility as a two-way player enhances his importance to the Grizzlies’ success, and his strong work ethic has translated into consistent improvement. Since Bane became Ja Morant’s sidekick, the Memphis Grizzlies have captured a top-2 seed in each of the last two seasons.
7. Donovan Mitchell – $35,410,310
2022-23 Stats: 28.3 PPG, 4.3 RPG, 4.4 APG, 1.5 SPG, 0.4 BPG
As the new cornerstone of the Cleveland Cavaliers, Donovan Mitchell has established himself as an elite shooting guard with a well-rounded skill set. Averaging 28.3 points, 4.3 rebounds, and 4.4 assists per game during the 2022-23 season, he showcased his ability to impact the game in various facets.
Mitchell’s scoring acumen is particularly remarkable, as he has registered a career-high 71-point performance which is the Cavaliers franchise record.
Even if he got criticized for constantly failing in the playoffs with the Utah Jazz and in the first round with the Cavaliers in 2023, Donovan Mitchell’s high earnings are a reflection of his consistent production, leadership on a competitive team, ability to deliver in crucial moments, and charismatic off-court presence.
Considering he is a top-5 shooting guard in the world, being the 7th-highest-paid makes perfect sense.
6. Anthony Edwards – $35,500,000
2022-23 Stats: 24.6 PPG, 5.8 RPG, 4.4 APG, 1.6 SPG, 0.7 BPG
Anthony Edwards’ position as the sixth-highest-paid shooting guard can be attributed to his meteoric rise as a versatile and electrifying shooting guard. Since entering the league, Edwards has displayed an incredible blend of athleticism, scoring ability, and potential for growth.
In his third season with the Minnesota Timberwolves, Edwards made a significant impact, averaging 24.6 points, 5.8 rebounds, and 4.4 assists per game. Beyond statistics, Edwards’ highlight-reel dunks and clutch plays quickly garnered him a devoted fanbase and significant media attention, boosting his marketability.
With his strong work ethic, dedication to improvement, and evident impact on the Timberwolves’ performance, Anthony Edwards has solidified his status as a rising star, and his stint with Team USA will only make the 22-year-old better which is scary to imagine.
5. James Harden – $35,640,000
2022-23 Stats: 21.0 PPG, 6.1 RPG, 10.7 APG, 1.2 SPG, 0.2 BPG
James Harden is still one of the best shooting guards in the league. Even though he has become more of a playmaker in the last few years, his natural position is at shooting guard and that is why he is on this list.
The Philadelphia 76ers will probably trade James Harden this season, and his $35 million contract is in the top five most expensive contracts among NBA shooting guards.
In the last 10 days, there has been a lot of controversy between James Harden and Daryl Morey, and if he doesn’t sign a contract extension this summer, he will probably not be amongst the 10 highest-paid shooting guards for the 2024-25 NBA season.
The former NBA MVP played well enough last season but was disappointing in the playoffs. James Harden reportedly wants to join the Clippers and that could be his last chance to win a championship.
4. Zach LaVine – $43,031,940
2022-23 Stats: 24.8 PPG, 4.5 RPG, 4.2 APG, 0.9 SPG, 0.2 BPG
Zach LaVine is one of the most exciting players in the NBA with incredible athleticism and scoring ability. At just 28 years old, he still has plenty of potential to improve, making him a highly sought-after asset for any team that wants to boost their offense.
LaVine was No. 13 overall by the Minnesota Timberwolves in 2014, but he really made a name for himself after being traded to the Chicago Bulls in 2017. LaVine has since made two All-Star Teams and averaged 24.8 points per game this season.
Assuming that LaVine continues to perform at a high level, his salary worth at least $40 million per season could be suitable. While this may seem like a staggering amount of money, it is important to remember that NBA salaries are determined by how much shooting and offense a player can be.
A 28-year-old posting over 24 points per game on over 37% from three means a max deal will always be offered.
3. Paul George – $48,787,763
2022-23 Stats: 23.8 PPG, 6.1 RPG, 5.1 APG, 1.5 SPG, 0.4 BPG
Paul George is one of the highest-paid players in the NBA due to his outstanding talent and skills as a basketball player pertaining to both ends of the court. He is an eight-time NBA All-Star and has been named to the All-NBA team six times.
In addition to his impressive individual achievements, George is a team player who brings leadership and defense to the court for the Los Angeles Clippers. Despite his talent, the fact that Paul George has been unable to keep healthy has prevented him from being respected as a top-10 player in the world even if he is getting paid like it.
When George is healthy, he deserves max money, but that has not been the case over the past few seasons. Hopefully, PG13 can stay healthy and prove why in terms of two-way play, there aren’t many better than him at his position.
2. Devin Booker – $49,700,000
2022-23 Stats: 27.8 PPG, 4.5 RPG, 5.5 APG, 1.0 SPG, 0.3 BPG
Devin Booker’s position as one of the highest-paid players in the NBA is a testament to the fact that he is the best at his position right now. Booker showcases his knack for putting up points in various ways, whether through three-point shooting, mid-range jumpers, or aggressive drives to the basket.
Scoring is a prized skill in the NBA and players who can consistently deliver in this aspect command higher salaries. Booker had an exceptional season last year, posting 27.8 points per game during the regular season, and boosted his numbers to 33.7 points on 58.5% shooting from the field, 50.8% from three, and 86.6% from the free-throw line.
Those are exceptional numbers that once again prove why Booker is making almost $50 million and he is the second-highest paid shooting guard in the NBA behind his own teammate.
1. Bradley Beal – $50,203,930
2022-23 Stats: 23.2 PPG, 3.9 RPG, 5.4 APG, 0.9 SPG, 0.7 BPG
Bradley Beal is a very respected scorer and an elite shooter, but he might be making too much money considering he has played under 65 games for four straight seasons. This year, Beal only played in 50 games and did not have his best season scoring the basketball. Rather, he only averaged 23.2 PPG on 36.5% shooting from deep.
However, the Washington Wizards needed him and that’s why they kept offering him contracts. That means Bradley Beal is making supermax money going forward even if the Phoenix Suns acquired him this summer to create a Big Three with Devin Booker and Kevin Durant.
Behind Booker, is there a more consistent offensive player at the shooting guard position when healthy? Remember, Beal posted 30.5 points and 31.3 points per game in 2020 and 2021 respectively, which indicates his greatness as a go-to scorer.
