There is always a bad contract on every NBA team because general managers get fooled by a player’s breakout season or perceived potential that ends up being a farce. Some of the worst contracts ever include Gilbert Arenas’ six-year deal worth $111 million and Allan Houston’s six-year $100 million deal, but which ones are the worst in the NBA today?
- Atlanta Hawks – De’Andre Hunter ($20,089,286)
- Boston Celtics – Jaylen Brown ($31,830,357)
- Brooklyn Nets – Ben Simmons ($37,893,408)
- Charlotte Hornets – Gordon Hayward ($31,500,000)
- Chicago Bulls – Zach LaVine ($40,064,220)
- Cleveland Cavaliers – Ricky Rubio ($6,146,342)
- Dallas Mavericks – Maxi Kleber ($11,000,000)
- Denver Nuggets – Michael Porter Jr. ($33,386,850)
- Detroit Pistons – Marvin Bagley III ($12,500,000)
- Golden State Warriors – Draymond Green ($22,321,429)
- Houston Rockets – Jock Landale ($8,000,000)
- Indiana Pacers – T.J. McConnell ($8,700,000)
- Los Angeles Clippers – PJ Tucker ($11,014,500)
- Los Angeles Lakers – Gabe Vincent ($10,500,000)
- Memphis Grizzlies – Brandon Clarke ($12,500,000)
- Miami Heat – Kyle Lowry ($29,682,540)
- Milwaukee Bucks – Khris Middleton ($29,320,988)
- Minnesota Timberwolves – Rudy Gobert ($41,000,000)
- New Orleans Pelicans – Zion Williamson ($34,005,250)
- New York Knicks – Evan Fournier ($18,857,143)
- Oklahoma City Thunder – Davis Bertans ($17,000,000)
- Orlando Magic – Markelle Fultz ($17,000,000)
- Philadelphia 76ers – Tobias Harris ($39,270,150)
- Phoenix Suns – Bradley Beal ($46,741,590)
- Portland Trail Blazers – Malcolm Brogdon ($22,500,000)
- Sacramento Kings – Sasha Vezenkov ($6,341,464)
- San Antonio Spurs – Devonte’ Graham ($12,100,000)
- Toronto Raptors – Chris Boucher ($11,750,000)
- Utah Jazz – John Collins ($25,340,000)
- Washington Wizards – Jordan Poole ($27,955,357)
While some of these players are role players who are grossly overpaid, some of them are major names who provide value on the court but are not worth the money being offered to them according to elite NBA standards.
Atlanta Hawks – De’Andre Hunter ($20,089,286)
Season Statistics: 14.9 PPG, 4.1 RPG, 1.4 APG, 0.8 SPG, 0.4 BPG
De’Andre Hunter, at 26 years old, is showcasing his talent with an average of 14.9 points per game this season. However, scrutiny arises due to his hefty contract of over $20 million per year until 2027. The expectations were high for Hunter to reach All-Star status by this point in his career, and while he has demonstrated scoring ability, some argue that his overall production falls short of justifying the salary.
The challenge for the Hawks’ management is to assess whether Hunter’s future development will align with the financial commitment made which is why the player has been thrown into recent trade discussions.
Boston Celtics – Jaylen Brown ($31,830,357)
Season Statistics: 22.7 PPG, 4.8 RPG, 3.7 APG, 1.1 SPG, 0.7 BPG
As an All-Star and the second-best player on the team, Jaylen Brown is undoubtedly a vital asset to the Boston Celtics. However, his recent contract extension, making him the highest-paid player in NBA history, has raised eyebrows. The Celtics found themselves in a challenging situation this past offseason, compelled to bring back Brown at almost any cost.
While he continues to perform at an All-Star level, some argue that the magnitude of his contract may surpass his overall impact on the team. Despite this financial commitment, the Celtics prioritize retaining a core player integral to their success alongside Jayson Tatum and it has worked so far as they are the best team in the NBA.
Brooklyn Nets – Ben Simmons ($37,893,408)
Season Statistics: 6.5 PPG, 10.8 RPG, 6.7 APG, 0.5 SPG, 0.8 BPG
Ben Simmons, once a three-time All-Star and two-time All-Defensive Team selection, has faced a notable decline in the past three seasons. Injuries and a perceived lack of confidence have hampered Simmons’ trajectory, casting shadows over what was once a promising career. The former LeBron James comparison, made before his rookie season, now seems distant as his prime appears to be at risk of being a forgotten star.
At 27 years old, there is time for Simmons to rejuvenate his career, but his current level of production does not align with his substantial $37 million salary. With his contract extending until 2024-25, the Brooklyn Nets face the challenge of maximizing Simmons’ potential while justifying his significant financial commitment. The Nets might be better off trading him instead of allowing him to walk for nothing after next season.
Charlotte Hornets – Gordon Hayward ($31,500,000)
Season Statistics: 15.0 PPG, 4.7 RPG, 4.7 APG, 1.1 SPG, 0.4 BPG
Gordon Hayward’s acquisition by the Charlotte Hornets raised eyebrows, particularly considering his injury history following the 2017 All-Star season. The four-year, $120 million contract was a significant financial commitment, and while Hayward has been a solid contributor, his performance hasn’t quite justified the hefty price tag.
Averaging 16.4 points and 4.9 rebounds per game in his four-year tenure with the Hornets, Hayward has been good but not exceptional. The veteran is nearly 34 years old so this will without a doubt be the last time Hayward receives a major contract deal because a veteran’s minimum deal could be the norm in the foreseeable future.
Chicago Bulls – Zach LaVine ($40,064,220)
Season Statistics: 21.0 PPG, 4.9 RPG, 3.4 APG, 0.9 SPG, 0.2 BPG
As an All-Star shooting guard, Zach LaVine brings scoring prowess to the Chicago Bulls, averaging 21.0 points per game this season. However, questions arise about his contract, making him the team’s highest-paid player. While LaVine is a valuable asset, the debate centers around whether he justifies being paid as the team’s best player.
Trade rumors surrounding LaVine suggest a potential reassessment of his role within the team. At 28 years old, he is no longer a player on the cusp of reaching his prime, and the Bulls are reaching out to teams to trade him as a result.
Cleveland Cavaliers – Ricky Rubio ($6,146,342)
Season Statistics: N/A
Ricky Rubio, earning over $6 million for this and the next season, has been notably absent from the court this season, with no games played. While a $6 million contract may not be exorbitant by modern NBA standards, Rubio, past his prime, raises questions about the value provided.
The veteran point guard’s absence and potential considerations for retirement add complexity to his contract’s overall impact on the Cleveland Cavaliers, especially considering he is 33 years old and might never get back to his playmaking best.
Dallas Mavericks – Maxi Kleber ($11,000,000)
Season Statistics: 3.4 PPG, 4.2 RPG, 2.0 APG, 0.2 SPG, 0.2 BPG
Maxi Kleber, the sharpshooting big man for the Dallas Mavericks, is facing scrutiny for his performance and the value of his contract. Despite his reputation as a sharpshooter, poor defensive mobility and rebounding abilities have become apparent, limiting his overall impact on the court.
With disappointing shooting stats this season, hitting only 33.3% from three, Kleber’s sharpshooting prowess seems to be on the decline. At almost 32 years old, his current performance raises questions about whether he justifies the $11 million contract, making it one of the potentially less favorable deals in the NBA.
Denver Nuggets – Michael Porter Jr. ($33,386,850)
Season Statistics: 16.3 PPG, 7.8 RPG, 1.5 APG, 0.5 SPG, 0.7 BPG
Michael Porter Jr., instrumental in the Nuggets’ championship run last season, showcased his scoring ability with 17.4 PPG in the regular season and 13.4 PPG in the playoffs. While a confident shooter with a back injury history, the $33 million price tag raises eyebrows, considering he is paid at a superstar level.
Although not a glaringly bad contract for the Nuggets, Porter Jr.’s deal stands out as potentially disproportionate to his role as a starter. The Nuggets as a franchise do not have many bad deals, however, so they deserve a ton of credit for that at least.
Detroit Pistons – Marvin Bagley III ($12,500,000)
Season Statistics: 10.7 PPG, 4.7 RPG, 1.0 APG, 0.1 SPG, 0.6 BPG
Marvin Bagley III, drafted as the No. 2 overall pick in 2018, has struggled with consistent injuries throughout his career, limiting his impact on the court. Despite solid but unspectacular numbers, averaging 10.7 points and 4.7 rebounds per game, the question arises whether Bagley III is deserving of a salary exceeding $12 million.
The Pistons’ challenging season, with only two wins, adds another layer of concern about the overall impact and value of Bagley III’s contract. As the Pistons try to rebuild their reputation, they must analyze the entire roster right now.
Golden State Warriors – Draymond Green ($22,321,429)
Season Statistics: 9.7 PPG, 5.5 RPG, 5.8 APG, 0.4 SPG, 0.7 BPG
Draymond Green has been a crucial part of the Warriors’ dynasty, known for his key defensive contributions and playmaking ability. However, at almost 34 years old, Green’s best years may be behind him. While his stats remain respectable, questions arise about his future, especially with three ejections this season and behavior concerns.
As the Warriors boast the highest payroll this season, Green’s status as the fifth-highest-paid player on the team raises discussions about whether his current performance justifies the significant financial commitment, particularly as the team is currently below .500 with the dynasty slowly coming to an end.
Houston Rockets – Jock Landale ($8,000,000)
Houston Rockets with the intention of serving as the backup to Alperen Sengun, given his notable playoff minutes with the Phoenix Suns last season. However, Landale has struggled to secure significant playing time under coach Ime Udoka, averaging only 8.5 minutes per game.
His statistical output, at 1.6 points and 1.8 rebounds per game, raises questions about the justification for his $8 million salary. While this figure may not significantly impact the team’s salary cap, the Rockets might still regret paying for the backup big man considering his production so far.
Indiana Pacers – T.J. McConnell ($8,700,000)
Indiana Pacers, who boast the lowest payroll in the NBA, providing them with ample flexibility. McConnell, averaging only 15.3 minutes per game, faces limitations in opportunities yet is the fourth-highest-paid player on the team.
While his contributions are valuable, discussions arise about the proportionality of his contract to his role within the team. His numbers have been solid in limited time but as mentioned before, there aren’t many bad contracts to consider on a team with the lowest payroll that sits above .500 right now.
Los Angeles Clippers – PJ Tucker ($11,014,500)
Los Angeles Clippers with a salary of $11,014,500. Despite his reputation, Tucker’s statistical output is limited, averaging only 1.3 points and 2.9 rebounds per game in 14.4 minutes of play.
The argument against his contract centers on the discrepancy between his salary and on-court production, especially considering his age, nearly 39 years old. As a win-now player, the Clippers face the challenge of balancing his defensive contributions with the financial investment made in Tucker who is the fifth-highest paid player on the team that has the second-highest payroll.
Los Angeles Lakers – Gabe Vincent ($10,500,000)
Season Statistics: 5.4 PPG, 1.0 RPG, 3.0 APG, 1.2 SPG, 0.0 BPG
Gabe Vincent, the starting point guard for the Miami Heat in their Finals run last season, has found himself with the Los Angeles Lakers on a contract worth over $10 million per season until the end of the 2025-26 season.
However, his contributions this season, averaging 5.4 points in 25.4 minutes per game, have not lived up to the financial commitment. While Vincent’s role might have changed since his time with the Heat, the Lakers might have made a mistake paying the guard over $10 million per season for three years.
Memphis Grizzlies – Brandon Clarke ($12,500,000)
Season Statistics: N/A
As the Memphis Grizzlies emerge as an up-and-coming team, the evaluation of potentially unfavorable contracts becomes crucial. While Marcus Smart commands a salary of over $18 million, his elite defensive skills contribute significantly to the team. Similarly, Steven Adams, despite being injury-prone, has a contract worth over $12 million per season and is dominant on defense at times.
However, Brandon Clarke is highlighted as a contender for the worst contract, given his deal extends until 2026-27 and he has only made nine starts in two seasons. Despite being an excellent backup, Clarke’s Achilles injury sidelining him for the entire 2023-24 season so far raises questions about the long-term viability of his contract.
Miami Heat – Kyle Lowry ($29,682,540)
Season Statistics: 9.5 PPG, 3.8 RPG, 4.2 APG, 1.2 SPG, 0.3 BPG
While Duncan Robinson commands a significant salary at a little over $18 million per season, his high-level production, averaging 14.6 PPG on 44.2% from three, aligns well with his talents. In contrast, Kyle Lowry, making almost $30 million this season, has faced criticism for his statistical output, averaging under 10 points per game.
While Lowry is set to be a free agent next year, the financial commitment for the 2023-24 campaign raises concerns about the return on investment for the Miami Heat. Miami wants to contend right now and every season counts considering Jimmy Butler is 34 years old, so they have to accept Lowry’s bad contract for another year.
Milwaukee Bucks – Khris Middleton ($29,320,988)
Season Statistics: 13.1 PPG, 4.8 RPG, 4.1 APG, 0.8 SPG, 0.1 BPG
Khris Middleton played a critical role in the Milwaukee Bucks’ 2021 championship run, serving as an excellent sidekick for Giannis Antetokounmpo. However, concerns arise about Middleton’s durability, having played 56 games over the last two seasons and approaching 33 years old.
Under contract until 2025, with a player option for 2026 worth $34,012,345, the financial commitment to Middleton raises questions, especially considering the presence of Damian Lillard on the team and the fact that the Bucks have the third-highest payroll in the NBA right now.
Minnesota Timberwolves – Rudy Gobert ($41,000,000)
Season Statistics: 12.5 PPG, 12.1 RPG, 1.3 APG, 0.8 SPG, 2.3 BPG
Rudy Gobert has had an excellent season in 2023-24, positioning himself as one of the contenders for Defensive Player of the Year. Posting a double-double with over 2 blocks per game, he has been a key factor in spearheading the number one-ranked defense in the NBA.
However, discussions arise about whether Gobert’s significant salary, being the highest-paid player on the team, aligns with his offensive limitations and reliance on guards for scoring. While he is a great defender, his salary might be too high especially when players like Anthony Edwards and Karl-Anthony Towns are considered more impactful stars.
New Orleans Pelicans – Zion Williamson ($34,005,250)
Season Statistics: 22.3 PPG, 5.9 RPG, 4.5 APG, 1.1 SPG, 0.3 BPG
When healthy, Zion Williamson is considered worth every penny of a supermax deal, showcasing immense talent and potential. However, concerns persist about his ability to stay on the court, having played a total of 137 games in five seasons. Ongoing issues with weight add another layer of uncertainty to his long-term health and availability.
Despite being the second-highest-paid player on the team this season, and set to make over $40 million in the 2027 and 2028 seasons, Williamson’s career trajectory raises questions about the long-term viability of the financial commitment made by the New Orleans Pelicans. The hope remains that the young star can overcome these challenges and fulfill the promise he has shown when in optimal condition.
New York Knicks – Evan Fournier ($18,857,143)
Season Statistics: 2.0 PPG, 1.0 RPG, 1.0 APG, 1.0 SPG, 0.0 BPG
Evan Fournier, earning $18,857,143, finds himself in a challenging situation with the New York Knicks. Despite being a free agent next year, Fournier’s impact on the court has been minimal, appearing in only one game this season. The shooting guard also only appeared in 27 games last season, averaging 6.1 points per game despite his hefty contract.
Coach Tom Thibodeau’s lack of trust in Fournier’s defensive abilities further complicates the situation. Despite a career 37.8% shooting from three, Fournier’s current contributions do not align with his salary, especially considering he is being compensated like a starter.
Oklahoma City Thunder – Davis Bertans ($17,000,000)
Oklahoma City Thunder, has faced scrutiny for his limited impact on the court. Despite being known for his shooting ability, Bertans’ statistical output has been underwhelming, averaging under 10 points per game since the 2021 season.
With only nine appearances this season, contributing 3.9 points per game, his contract appears to be on the higher side relative to his on-court production. The Thunder’s strategy of maintaining flexibility with some overpaid players for trade purposes seems to have worked regardless as they are preparing to be a title contender very soon.
Orlando Magic – Markelle Fultz ($17,000,000)
Season Statistics: 11.4 PPG, 3.4 RPG, 4.0 APG, 1.2 SPG, 0.4 BPG
Markelle Fultz, a former No. 1 overall pick in the 2017 NBA Draft, has faced a challenging career marked by injuries. With only 196 games played in seven seasons, he has struggled to meet the expectations set for him. Earning $17 million, Fultz’s impact on the court has been limited, playing only five games this season.
Injuries have significantly impacted the trajectory of his career, raising doubts about whether he will ever reach the potential initially expected of him. Fultz is off the books next season and there is a heavy doubt that any team will offer a deal similar to what he is making this year.
Philadelphia 76ers – Tobias Harris ($39,270,150)
Season Statistics: 16.0 PPG, 6.0 RPG, 2.7 APG, 0.9 SPG, 0.4 BPG
Tobias Harris has consistently been regarded as one of the most overpaid players in the league. While effective as a scorer, especially as a third option, he faces criticism for not justifying his max salary. Harris’s ability to create for himself is overshadowed by players like Joel Embiid and Tyrese Maxey, yet his salary reflects that of an elite player.
Set to become a free agent next year, it appears unlikely that he will return to the 76ers unless he is willing to take a significant discount. The player’s numbers have been solid with the 76ers, averaging 17.6 points and 6.6 rebounds per game over seven seasons, so he has done his best to help the team become a contender in the East, to his credit.
Phoenix Suns – Bradley Beal ($46,741,590)
Season Statistics: 14.7 PPG, 3.3 RPG, 3.2 APG, 0.7 SPG, 0.3 BPG
While Bradley Beal is an elite scorer and perennial All-Star, concerns about his contract arise given the Phoenix Suns’ position as the fourth-highest payroll in the league. Beal’s injury-prone nature, with no season of at least 65 games played since 2018-19 and only six appearances this season, raises doubts about his ability to stay healthy.
With a substantial salary of over $50 million per season until 2027, questions emerge about whether Beal can consistently contribute and form a reliable Big Three with Kevin Durant and Devin Booker. The Suns have zero flexibility in terms of their roster right now since their Big Three are making the bulk of the money, and Beal’s contract seems to be the worst one.
Portland Trail Blazers – Malcolm Brogdon ($22,500,000)
Season Statistics: 15.1 PPG, 3.5 RPG, 5.4 APG, 0.8 SPG, 0.2 BPG
Malcolm Brogdon, while a capable two-way player, is perceived as best suited for a backup guard role. At 31 years old, he has only played over 65 games once in his career, during his rookie season. Brogdon’s style may not align with the Portland Trail Blazers’ current rebuilding phase, and his contract, exceeding $20 million, poses challenges for a team looking to reshape its roster.
As Portland navigates its future, Brogdon’s fit within the team becomes a crucial aspect to consider, especially in the context of his contract and its implications for the team’s flexibility and long-term goals. It seems the Trail Blazers will rebuild around Deandre Ayton, Anfernee Simons, and Scoot Henderson going forward which means Brogdon will be one of the odd men out.
Sacramento Kings – Sasha Vezenkov ($6,341,464)
San Antonio Spurs – Devonte’ Graham ($12,100,000)
Toronto Raptors – Chris Boucher ($11,750,000)
Season Statistics: 6.4 PPG, 3.8 RPG, 0.3 APG, 0.3 SPG, 0.6 BPG
Despite Chris Boucher’s two NBA titles (with the Raptors and as a two-way player with the Warriors), he is currently regarded as having the worst contract on the Raptors. As the sixth-highest-paid player on the team, Boucher’s limited playing time, averaging only 14.2 minutes per game this season raises questions about the value he brings relative to his salary.
At nearly 31 years old, concerns about his potential for improvement, especially in terms of a two-way impact, may shape discussions around the efficiency of his contract within the context of the Raptors’ roster and future plans which could feature a rebuild around Scottie Barnes.
Utah Jazz – John Collins ($25,340,000)
Washington Wizards – Jordan Poole ($27,955,357)
Season Statistics: 17.2 PPG, 2.5 RPG, 3.6 APG, 1.0 SPG, 0.3 BPG
Jordan Poole, expected to rise into a star after his departure from the Warriors, has faced criticism for underperforming considering his substantial salary of over $30 million until 2026-27. Averaging under 20 points per game and shooting 31.7% from three, Poole’s statistical output has not matched the financial investment made by the Washington Wizards.
Additionally, concerns about his leadership capabilities add complexity to the situation, raising the possibility of a trade to alleviate the financial burden and reshape the team’s roster. So far, Poole has been somewhat of a disappointment and the Wizards might want to rebuild around a different player going forward.
