The Era of the NBA’s Richest Deals and Bigger Expectations

The NBA is entering uncharted financial territory. With a salary cap surge on the horizon, driven by massive new TV deals, teams are writing eye-watering checks to lock down their cornerstone players. But these aren’t just headline-grabbing NBA’s richest deals; they’re high-stakes bets that could define entire franchises for the next decade.

The following five supermax contracts don’t just reflect astronomical paydays. They represent a shift in power, strategy, and the balance of the league. As we look toward 2026, these deals could very well redraw the NBA’s championship map.

Luka Doncic – $165M Extension Now, $406M Supermax Looming

Luka Doncic has already rewritten the script in Los Angeles. His 3-year, $165 million extension with the Lakers was a major move, but it’s merely the opening act. In 2028, Doncic could ink a record-shattering 5-year, $406 million deal, making him the highest-paid player in NBA history.

And it’s not just the money. The Lakers are no longer a team built around fading legends; they’re Luka’s team now. With new additions like Marcus Smart, DeAndre Ayton, and Jake LaRavia reportedly brought in with Doncic’s blessing, Los Angeles is reshaping itself in Luka’s image. Post-LeBron? It’s already here.

Jayson Tatum – $315M Commitment Keeps Boston’s Window Open

Boston’s bold decision to give Jayson Tatum a five-year, $315 million supermax extension leaves no room for doubt that the Celtics are fully committed to their core. With Jaylen Brown already on a $304 million deal, the duo becomes the most expensive in league history.

Fresh off a 2024 title, Tatum isn’t just getting paid for past performance. He’s being tasked with leading a franchise that expects banners, not just playoff berths. This deal doesn’t just secure a superstar, it sets the tone for Boston’s championship-or-bust identity moving forward.

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander – $285M MVP Reward, Historic Salary

After leading the Thunder to a championship and capturing the MVP award, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander received a four-year, $285 million extension the highest average annual salary in NBA history at $71.25 million.

Oklahoma City didn’t hesitate. This contract, starting in 2027–28, locks in their franchise centerpiece through 2031. With a young, ascending roster and elite draft assets, OKC is betting on sustained dominance. And with Shai at the helm—elite offensively, relentless defensively—that bet looks smarter by the day.

Giannis Antetokounmpo – $186M Now, But a Clock is Ticking

Giannis’s 3-year, $186 million extension, signed in 2023, secured his services through 2027. But make no mistake, this is a contract with a countdown. With a $62.7 million player option in 2027–28, Milwaukee’s margin for error is razor-thin.

Damian Lillard is gone. The roster is in transition. The Bucks are scrambling to keep their title window open, but if results don’t follow soon, Giannis could be the next megastar, forcing a seismic trade. This contract is less about stability and more about urgency.

Anthony Edwards – $260M Bet on a Budding Superstar

Anthony Edwards’ rookie max extension, potentially worth $260 million, puts the Timberwolves all-in on their 24-year-old star. After leading Minnesota to the Western Conference Finals while averaging 27.6 points per game, Edwards is now the franchise face.

But there’s risk ahead. With Rudy Gobert and Julius Randle on massive deals too, Minnesota may face tough decisions under the league’s tightening CBA rules. To remain contenders, the Wolves might have to part with one of their other stars to avoid financial gridlock.

Final Thoughts: Supermax Deals and the Future of Team Building

These supermax contracts aren’t just salary milestones; they’re statements. Teams are choosing to build around singular, elite talents and hoping the rest falls into place. In an era where loyalty is rare and windows close fast, locking up superstars early has become the clearest path to relevance and contention.

Yet, as these megadeals become the new normal, they raise urgent questions: Can teams build competitive depth around these bloated cap hits? Or will the very contracts that secure their stars end up handcuffing them?

By 2026, we’ll start seeing which bets paid off and which broke the bank.