- Two of the best players in the world today happen to be centers
- Dominant big men are back but they are bringing different skills to the court
- Centers getting paid the max are doing more than dominating the paint in the NBA
The role of the center position has undergone significant transformations. Once considered the dominant force in the game, centers are now expected to be more versatile than ever, seamlessly blending traditional post-play with modern skills like three-point shooting and playmaking. As the game has evolved, so too have the financial dynamics of the sport. In this article, we dive into the financial realm of the NBA and explore the top-earning centers of the 2023-24 season.
- Honorable Mentions
- Jarrett Allen – $20,000,000
- Clint Capela – $20,616,000
- 10. Myles Turner – $20,975,000
- 9. Draymond Green – $22,321,429
- 8. Brook Lopez – $25,000,000
- 7. Domantas Sabonis – $28,000,000
- 6. Deandre Ayton – $32,459,438
- 5. Bam Adebayo – $32,600,060
- 4. Anthony Davis – $40,600,080
- 3. Rudy Gobert – $41,000,000
- 2. Joel Embiid – $47,607,350
- 1. Nikola Jokic – $47,607,350
The 2023-24 NBA season bears witness to a new era of highly paid and multi-talented centers who are redefining their position. From perennial All-Stars to emerging talents, these players are not only commanding attention on the court but also securing lucrative contracts that reflect their value to their respective franchises. By seeing the highest-paid power forwards in the NBA, we have a great indication that bigger players are important in today’s game, and here are the highest-paid centers in the NBA.
Honorable Mentions
Jarrett Allen – $20,000,000
Kicking off the list as an honorable mention, Jarrett Allen is known for his shot-blocking ability, rim protection, and rebounding prowess, making him a crucial interior presence for the Cleveland Cavaliers. His athleticism and agility enable him to guard multiple positions effectively and contribute on both ends of the floor. Last season, the athletic center averaged 14.3 points, 9.8 rebounds, and 1.2 blocks per game.
Even if Allen may not have the accolades (1-time All-Star) of some established stars who are making the big bucks as centers, his contract signifies the Cavaliers’ commitment to building a competitive team around Darius Garland and potentially Donovan Mitchell for long-term success. As long as Allen can block shots, catch lobs, and play consistent paint defense, he is well worth the $20 million he will be paid in 2024.
Clint Capela – $20,616,000
Clint Capela is a significant presence among the highest-paid centers in the NBA as an honorable mention. While his contract may not reach the same financial heights as some of the league’s top earners, it reflects the Atlanta Hawks’ recognition of his pivotal role as a dominant force in the paint. Despite being a traditional center who cannot shoot, Capela is still holding down his spot as the Atlanta Hawks’ starting big man.
His contract signifies the Hawks’ commitment to building a competitive roster and their belief in Capela’s ability to be a key piece of their defensive schemes. While his scoring may not be as high-profile as some other centers on this list, his contributions in terms of rebounding and rim protection make him an indispensable asset for the Hawks. Last year, Capela averaged 12.0 points and 11.0 rebounds per game and is a great lob partner for All-Star Trae Young.
10. Myles Turner – $20,975,000
Myles Turner wants to be an All-Star in 2024, and if he gets to that level, his salary is more than team-friendly for the Indiana Pacers franchise. The big man is making almost $21 million in 2024 and is one of the best shot-blockers in the NBA after winning two blocks titles and averaging 2.3 blocks per game last year. At the same time, Turner is also shooting 35.3% from deep as a traditional center.
While his scoring may not match that of some other centers, his defensive contributions and shot-blocking prowess make him a valuable asset for the Pacers. Turner remains a notable figure among the highest-paid centers, particularly for his elite defensive capabilities and their impact on the game. The key for the Pacers is to find a way to continue developing their franchise player, Tyrese Haliburton, because the rest of the team will follow.
9. Draymond Green – $22,321,429
Draymond Green, earning $22,321,429 for the 2023-24 season, may not hold the title of a traditional center, but he is a unique and highly valuable piece of the puzzle for the Golden State Warriors. His contract reflects the Warriors’ recognition of his pivotal role as a versatile center who impacts the game in various ways. His basketball IQ, leadership, and ability to guard multiple positions make him an indispensable asset for the Warriors, even as he approaches 34 years of age.
Furthermore, Draymond Green’s position among the highest-paid centers showcases the evolving definition of the position in the modern NBA. While he may not fit the traditional mold of a center, his contract underscores the league’s shift toward positionless basketball and the importance of players who can impact the game beyond scoring. Golden State decided to pay Green instead of keeping Jordan Poole, and that means the veteran will be a vital member of the new “small ball” lineup that will feature newcomer Chris Paul.
8. Brook Lopez – $25,000,000
Brook Lopez’s contract underscores the Milwaukee Bucks’ recognition of his contributions to their championship-winning team. Lopez is renowned for his shot-blocking prowess, three-point shooting ability, and defensive presence in the paint. His versatile game allows him to stretch the floor on offense while providing crucial rim protection on defense. Even at age 35 years old with 15 years under his belt, Lopez’s salary signifies the value of experienced centers who can excel in various aspects of the game.
Lopez averaged 15.9 points, 6.7 rebounds, and 2.5 blocks per game on 37.4% shooting from three. The big man’s defense and shot-blocking was so exceptional that the veteran was in the running for Defensive Player of the Year in 2023. The former No. 10 overall pick is a dominant defensive presence in the paint and even if he is getting older, he might be worth the $25 million deal going forward.
7. Domantas Sabonis – $28,000,000
While his contract may not be as lucrative as some of the top earners, Domantas Sabonis’ deal reflects the importance of his versatile skill set and his role as a key contributor for his team. Sabonis is known for his exceptional rebounding ability, scoring versatility in the post, and playmaking skills as a center. In 2023, the Sacramento Kings center posted 19.1 points, 12.3 rebounds, and 7.3 assists per game while leading the team to the playoffs.
Sabonis remains a notable figure among the highest-paid centers in the league, both in terms of salary and his evolving role on the court. The 6’11” big man starts at center even if he can occupy the power forward spot, and as a modern-day big who can run and pass, Sabonis is in the conversation for being a top-five center in the world and his salary is quite team-friendly when considering that fact.
6. Deandre Ayton – $32,459,438
Deandre Ayton, with a salary of $32,459,438 for the 2023-24 season, is a rising star among the highest-paid centers in the NBA. While his contract might not be as eye-popping as some of the league’s top veterans, it reflects the Portland Trail Blazers’ belief in his potential and his burgeoning impact on their team. Ayton was the main asset Portland received by trading away superstar Damian Lillard and the franchise is happy to pay him over $32 million next season.
As Ayton continues to refine his skills and grow as a player, his contract serves as an investment in the future of the Trail Blazers alongside Scoot Henderson, Anfernee Simons, and Shaedon Sharpe, solidifying his place in the conversation about the highest-paid centers in the league. Hopefully, Ayton can reward Portland by making the All-Star Team next year.
5. Bam Adebayo – $32,600,060
While Bam Adebayo may not command the same astronomical salaries as some of his peers, his contract reflects the Miami Heat’s recognition of his immense potential and the pivotal role he plays for their team. Adebayo’s game is characterized by his defensive versatility, shot-blocking ability, and proficiency in the pick-and-roll game. Behind Jimmy Butler, Bam Adebayo was the most important part of Miami’s Finals run last season.
Moreover, Bam Adebayo’s position among the top-earning centers also underscores the changing landscape of the NBA, where players like him are increasingly seen as the future of the position. While he may not yet have the accolades of some veterans, his contract reflects the Heat’s belief in his potential to develop into a franchise cornerstone. With two All-Star and four All-Defensive Team appearances, Adebayo has the backing that he is a top-five center in the league.
4. Anthony Davis – $40,600,080
While he is recognized for his versatility to play both power forward and center positions, Anthony Davis’ contract reflects his substantial role as a key interior presence for the Los Angeles Lakers. Davis possesses a unique skill set that combines shot-blocking, rebounding, and scoring abilities, making him a game-changing force on both ends of the court. His ability to protect the rim and score from mid-range and beyond the arc adds a dynamic dimension to the Lakers’ lineup.
His salary reflects not just his contributions as a traditional center but also his capacity to adapt to the evolving style of play in the NBA. For the Lakers, Davis is not only a defensive anchor but also a critical offensive option, and his contract demonstrates their commitment to building a championship-caliber team around him and LeBron James. If the big man can post numbers similar to last year (25.9 points, 12.5 rebounds per game), the money is well spent.
3. Rudy Gobert – $41,000,000
Rudy Gobert’s salary of $41,000,000 for the 2023-24 season cements his status as one of the NBA’s premier defensive forces and centers. While he may not hold the title of the highest-paid center in the league or even the title of the most dominant center in the league, his contract reflects his unique ability to dominate on the defensive end. Last season, in the Frenchman’s first season with the Minnesota Timberwolves, Gobert averaged 11.6 rebounds and 1.4 blocks per game.
Interestingly, Gobert’s position as one of the top-earning centers also highlights the NBA’s recognition of the importance of defensive specialists in a league often focused on scoring. His contract serves as a reminder that players who excel in defensive categories, like blocks and rebounds, are highly regarded and compensated for their contributions. While his salary often causes criticism to head Gobert’s way, he is still one of the best defenders in the world, regardless of his lack of true offensive ability.
2. Joel Embiid – $47,607,350
Joel Embiid’s standing as the highest-paid center in the 2023-24 NBA season is a testament to both his exceptional talent and his pivotal role within the Philadelphia 76ers organization. With a colossal salary of $47,607,350, Embiid is not only one of the most dominant players in the league but also a cornerstone of the 76ers’ championship aspirations. His combination of size, skill, and versatility makes him a force to be reckoned with on both ends of the court. Last season, the center won his second-straight scoring title (33.1 points per game) and also won league MVP.
Embiid’s salary also places immense pressure on him to deliver consistent and exceptional performances, not only in the regular season but also in the playoffs. For the 76ers, investing heavily in Embiid is a calculated risk, and they expect him to be a game-changer in their quest for an NBA title. With James Harden likely out the door, Joel must continue scoring the ball at a high level to prove he is still a top-five player in the world without the league’s assist leader by his side anymore.
1. Nikola Jokic – $47,607,350
Nikola Jokic, sharing the title of the highest-paid center with Joel Embiid at $47,607,350 for the 2023-24 season, stands as a testament to his incredible rise in the NBA ranks. As the reigning NBA champion and Finals MVP, Jokic’s contract represents not only his immense skill but also his indispensable role with the Denver Nuggets. His style of play as a center is revolutionary, blending elite passing skills, court vision, and scoring ability. Jokic’s versatility allows the Nuggets to run their offense through him, akin to a point center, and his uncanny ability to orchestrate plays from the high post has transformed Denver into a contender.
There is no doubt that the Serbian was the best player in the world in 2023 because he averaged 24.5 points, 11.8 rebounds, and 9.8 assists per game while carrying Denver to the Finals in a winning effort. Jokic’s journey from a relatively unknown international prospect to a top-tier player with an equivalent salary to the best in the league exemplifies the changing dynamics of basketball and the premium placed on multi-dimensional big men, and Denver’s go-to player will continue showcasing his superstar talents next year.
