It doesn’t happen often and it won’t ever be expected, but some NBA superstars have taken less money if it means helping a team improve their depth. Much is being said about LeBron James’ initial willingness to take a pay cut for the right player this summer, but that chance is long gone after The King signed a two-year, $104 million deal. Looking throughout history, we have collected the NBA superstars who took pay cuts in their careers and revisited how that worked out.
1. Dwyane Wade
Pay Cut: $15 Million
Dwyane Wade’s decision to take a significant pay cut in 2010 was a cornerstone of the Miami Heat’s formation of the Big Three known as the “Heatles”. Wade, along with LeBron James and Chris Bosh, orchestrated their contracts to create financial room for the trio to unite in Miami. Wade’s sacrifice involved a $15 million reduction in potential earnings over the life of his contract, underscoring his commitment to winning championships and building a dynasty.
Wade’s financial sacrifice was instrumental in allowing the Heat to sign both James and Bosh, forming one of the most formidable trios in NBA history. Wade’s pay cut paved the way for the Heat’s four consecutive NBA Finals appearances from 2011 to 2014 and their back-to-back championships in 2012 and 2013. The reason Wade appears first is because the Heat was his team, and he made the most sacrifices to allow LeBron James to take over.
2. LeBron James
Pay Cut: $15 Million
LeBron James’ decision to take a $15 million pay cut in 2010 was a monumental moment in NBA history. James, along with Dwyane Wade and Chris Bosh, strategically structured their contracts to allow the Heat to sign all three stars in the most unprecedented free agency formation we have ever seen. This financial sacrifice underscored LeBron’s commitment to winning championships and building a dynasty in Miami.
LeBron’s pay cut was a testament to his understanding of the bigger picture and his willingness to prioritize team success over individual earnings. His decision enabled the Heat to assemble a well-rounded roster, resulting in four consecutive NBA Finals appearances and two championships. Even if James has not taken a salary hit as big as this one, his decision led to one of the most dominant dynasties ever.
3. Chris Bosh
Pay Cut: $15 Million
In the final part of the Big Three, Chris Bosh also made multiple sacrifices one of them being financial. Bosh’s willingness to accept less money was instrumental in creating the financial flexibility needed for the Heat to sign all three superstars. The All-Star forward also accepted being the third option on the team and his numbers suffered, posting 18.0 points and 7.3 rebounds per game which is below his career averages of 19.2 points and 8.5 rebounds per game.
Bosh’s pay cut exemplified his team-first mentality and desire to win championships. His financial sacrifice allowed the Heat to build a more balanced and competitive roster, leading to four consecutive NBA Finals appearances and two championships in 2012 and 2013. Even if Bosh would have built a legacy with the Toronto Raptors, joining the Heat eventually led him to the Hall of Fame as a two-time NBA champion.
4. Dirk Nowitzki
Pay Cut: $15 Million
Dirk Nowitzki’s decision to take a significant pay cut in 2014 was a clear demonstration of his dedication to the Dallas Mavericks and his willingness to do whatever it took to keep the team competitive. Nowitzki, who had been the face of the franchise for over a decade, agreed to a three-year, $25 million contract, a stark contrast to the maximum salary he could have commanded. This $15 million reduction allowed the Mavericks to pursue top-tier free agents and bolster their roster, showcasing Nowitzki’s unyielding commitment to the team’s success.
Nowitzki’s pay cut was instrumental in the Mavericks’ efforts to build a stronger supporting cast around him. It facilitated the acquisition of players like Chandler Parsons (three-year offer sheet worth in excess of $45 million with a player option after Year 2 and a 15-percent trade kicker attached) and enabled the team to remain flexible in the highly competitive Western Conference. Even if Nowitzki was unable to be a part of another championship team following 2011, he did do his best to help the Mavericks build around him which is why he is the greatest in franchise history.
5. James Harden
Pay Cut: $14 Million
James Harden chose to take a $14 million pay cut in 2022 to help the Philadelphia 76ers sign key players was a significant move that underscored his commitment to winning a championship. Harden opted out of his $47.4 million player option and re-signed with the Sixers for significantly less, enabling the team to sign P.J. Tucker, De’Anthony Melton, Montrezl Harrell, and Danuel House Jr. His sacrifice was aimed at creating a more balanced and competitive roster, demonstrating his willingness to prioritize team success over individual earnings.
Harden’s financial concession was a strategic move to enhance the 76ers’ depth and overall team performance. By taking a pay cut, he provided the front office with the financial flexibility needed to strengthen the squad around him and Joel Embiid. Even if the 76ers only reached the second round of the playoffs with Harden and Embiid, it was impressive to see The Beard take a financial hit in search of his first NBA championship.
6. Udonis Haslem
Pay Cut: $14 Million
Udonis Haslem took a $14 million pay cut in 2010 (accepting a five-year, $20 million deal instead of earning $34 million) and that was a testament to his loyalty and dedication to the Miami Heat. As a veteran leader and fan favorite, Haslem opted to accept a significantly reduced salary to remain with the Heat and contribute to the team’s championship aspirations. His financial sacrifice was instrumental in creating the cap space needed for Miami to sign LeBron James and Chris Bosh.
Haslem’s pay cut exemplified his unwavering commitment to the Heat and his desire to be part of a winning team. By taking less money, he ensured that Miami could build a championship-caliber roster, leading to the Heat’s four consecutive NBA Finals appearances and two championships. There’s a reason why Haslem is one of the most beloved players in Heat history.
7. Tim Duncan
Pay Cut: $11 Million
Tim Duncan epitomized loyalty and a team-first mentality during his illustrious career with the San Antonio Spurs. In the summer of 2012, Duncan opted for a substantial pay cut, signing a three-year, $30 million contract despite being eligible for a much larger deal. His decision to accept a $11 million reduction from his previous earnings was pivotal for the Spurs, allowing the franchise to maintain a competitive roster around him.
This sacrifice played a significant role in San Antonio’s ability to secure key free agents and re-sign essential players, ultimately leading to their 2014 NBA Championship. Duncan’s pay cut was a testament to his unselfish nature and desire to continue competing at the highest level. It enabled the Spurs to retain core players like Manu Ginobili and Tony Parker as they developed Kawhi Leonard.
8. Shaquille O’Neal
Pay Cut: $10 Million
Shaquille O’Neal’s decision to take a $10 million pay cut in 2006 was pivotal in helping the Miami Heat assemble a championship-caliber roster. After being traded from the Los Angeles Lakers, Shaq agreed to a five-year, $100 million contract, significantly less than the maximum salary he was eligible for (3-year, $90 million at least). This move allowed the Heat to retain key players and sign crucial free agents, ultimately leading to their 2006 NBA Championship.
Shaq’s pay cut demonstrated his willingness to adapt and prioritize team success over individual financial gain. By reducing his salary, O’Neal provided the Heat with the flexibility needed to build a strong supporting cast around him and Dwyane Wade. This strategic financial sacrifice was a key factor in the Heat’s ability to compete at the highest level and secure Shaq’s fourth NBA title.
9. Kevin Durant
Pay Cut: $10 Million
Kevin Durant’s willingness to take a $10 million pay cut in 2017 was a critical factor in the Golden State Warriors’ ability to maintain their dominance. After winning his first championship with the Warriors, Durant opted for a two-year, $53 million contract, significantly less than the maximum salary he could have commanded ($10 million less than he was eligible for). This financial sacrifice allowed Golden State to re-sign key players like Andre Iguodala and Shaun Livingston, preserving the team’s core and competitive edge.
Durant’s pay cut demonstrated his commitment to the Warriors’ success and his understanding of the team’s financial constraints. By taking less money, he ensured that the Warriors could retain their depth and continue their championship pursuits. Durant’s unselfish decision played a vital role in the Warriors’ subsequent championship run in 2018, solidifying their place as one of the greatest teams in NBA history.
10. Andrei Kirilenko
Pay Cut: $7 Million
Andrei Kirilenko’s $7 million pay cut in 2013 was a notable example of a veteran player prioritizing team success over personal earnings. After being waived by the Minnesota Timberwolves, Kirilenko signed a two-year, $6 million contract with the Brooklyn Nets, despite having a player option worth $10 million for the 2013-14 season. This financial sacrifice allowed the Nets to bolster their roster and improve their competitiveness in the Eastern Conference.
Kirilenko’s pay cut showcased his willingness to adapt and contribute to a team with championship aspirations. By accepting a lower salary, he provided the Nets with the flexibility needed to sign additional players and enhance their depth. Kirilenko’s unselfishness and team-first mentality were key factors in the Nets’ efforts to build a stronger and more balanced roster during his tenure.
