20 Highest-Paid NBA Small Forwards For The 2024-25 Season

The small forward position has never been more important than now, with many of the top superstars in the NBA are also the highest-paid in the 2024-25 season. As we dive into the list of the 20 highest-paid small forwards after seeing how Devin Booker leads all shooting guards , expect to see some familiar names such as LeBron James and Jaylen Brown . However, there might be some swingmen who are overpaid while some including Klay Thompson won’t appear since they are underpaid.

1. Kawhi Leonard - $49,350,000

Kawhi Leonard is set to earn $49.35 million this season as he leads the Los Angeles Clippers in their pursuit of an NBA championship. This salary equates to approximately $602,439 per game. Despite injury concerns, Leonard remains one of the league’s elite two-way players (23.7 PPG, 6.1 RPG, 3.6 APG in 2023-24). His leadership is crucial as the Clippers aim for their first title although the roster has been weakened without All-Star Paul George who left to the Philadelphia 76ers. Expectations are high, and Leonard’s performance will be pivotal in determining the Clippers’ success.

The Clippers have built a team capable of contending, and Leonard’s ability to stay healthy will be key. His playoff experience and clutch performances make him one of the most valuable assets in the NBA. The Clippers are all-in on this season, and Leonard’s salary reflects his role as the franchise cornerstone although there are doubts he can stay healthy.

2. Jaylen Brown - $49,205,800

Jaylen Brown’s new contract makes him one of the highest-paid players in the NBA, earning $49.2 million after signing the largest contract extension in NBA history (at the time) before the 2023-24 NBA season. This translates to about $600,073 per game. As a vital part of the Boston Celtics , Brown is expected to take on an even larger role alongside Jayson Tatum after winning the 2024 Finals MVP.

With Boston aiming to return to the Finals, Brown’s consistency and leadership will be tested. His ability to perform under pressure and lead the team in crucial moments will be essential. The Celtics have invested heavily in Brown, and his performance this season will be under some scrutiny as Boston chases its 19th championship following their Finals victory last year.

3. Paul George - $49,205,800

Paul George will also earn $49.2 million this season, tying him with former teammate Kawhi Leonard and rival Jaylen Brown. Earning roughly $600,073 per game, George is integral to the Philadelphia 76ers’ championship hopes. Known for his versatility on both ends of the floor, George’s health and consistency will be vital for the 76ers who have a new big three alongside Joel Embiid and Tyrese Maxey.

The 76ers need George to stay healthy and deliver in the postseason, where he has faced scrutiny in the past and last season after posting 19.5 points per game on 36.7% from deep. With the team’s window for a championship wide open with plenty of star power, George’s contributions will be crucial. His partnership with Embiid and Maxey will determine how far Philadelphia can go this season.

4. Jimmy Butler - $48,798,677

Jimmy Butler is set to make $48.8 million this season as the face of the Miami Heat , earning approximately $595,092 per game. Known for his intensity and leadership, Butler will once again be the driving force behind the Heat’s success as he posted 20.8 points and 5.3 rebounds per game in 60 appearances. Miami will be looking to return to the Finals for the third time in five seasons, and Butler’s two-way excellence will be central to their efforts.

Butler’s ability to elevate his game in the playoffs is well-known, and the Heat will need him at his best to navigate the tough Eastern Conference. With a strong supporting cast, Butler’s performance could propel Miami to another deep postseason run, but he has to stay healthy to prove he deserves a max extension from Pat Riley and the team’s management.

5. LeBron James - $48,728,845

LeBron James still among the highest-paid players at $48.7 million, continues to be the focal point for the Los Angeles Lakers . This salary breaks down to about $594,499 per game. Entering his 22nd NBA season, LeBron’s leadership and playmaking are critical as the Lakers look to contend for another title. His ability to perform at an elite level despite his age is remarkable.

As LeBron chases his fifth NBA title after winning gold in the 2024 Olympics, his partnership with Anthony Davis and the Lakers’ new additions will be under the spotlight. The team’s success will heavily depend on LeBron’s health and ability to manage the grueling season. His earnings reflect his ongoing impact on the game, both on and off the court, and it has to be said that The King probably belongs first on the list in terms of being the highest-paid small forward.

6. Zach LaVine - $43,031,940

Zach LaVine is set to make $43 million this season, earning approximately $524,756 per game. As the Chicago Bulls’ best player, LaVine’s offensive firepower will be crucial in keeping the Bulls competitive in a tough Eastern Conference. His ability to score from anywhere on the court makes him one of the most dangerous players in the league as he looks to bounce back from an injury-ridden season (19.5 PPG on 34.9% 3-PT FG in 25 appearances).

The Bulls are hoping to start getting better on both ends of the court, and LaVine’s performance will be a key factor. His consistency and ability to stay healthy will determine how far Chicago can go this season. However, it has to be said that the Bulls could be looking to move LaVine for the right price as they are rebuilding in the short term.

7. Lauri Markkanen - $42,176,400

Lauri Markkanen , earning $42.2 million this season, will be a centerpiece for the Utah Jazz. This salary equates to about $514,345 per game. Markkanen’s strong season last year (23.2 PPG, 8.2 RPG) has set high expectations for him as he continues to develop into one of the league’s top forwards. His shooting and versatility make him a key player for the Jazz’s rebuild.

As Utah looks to return to the playoffs, Markkanen’s growth as a leader and primary scorer will be critical. The Jazz have invested heavily in him, and his ability to elevate his game could determine their success this season. Markkanen’s performance will be closely watched as the Jazz aim to exceed expectations.

8. Brandon Ingram - $36,016,200

Brandon Ingram will earn $36 million this season, earning approximately $439,221 per game. As the New Orleans Pelicans’ go-to perimeter scorer (20.8 PPG, 5.7 APG), Ingram’s ability to create offense will be crucial to the team’s success. Paired with Zion Williamson, Ingram’s performance will be pivotal in determining how far the Pelicans can go in the Western Conference.

Ingram’s continued development as a playmaker and leader will be key as the Pelicans aim for a deep playoff run. His ability to stay healthy and perform in clutch moments will be essential. Ingram’s salary should reflect his status as a cornerstone of the Pelicans’ future but he has been dangled in some trade rumors to clear some cap space.

9. Michael Porter Jr. - $35,859,950

Michael Porter Jr. , earning $35.9 million this season, will be a key player for the Denver Nuggets as they defend their title. This salary amounts to about $437,315 per game. Porter’s scoring ability and shooting make him a crucial part of Denver’s offense, particularly alongside Nikola Jokic and Jamal Murray. In 2023-24, the swingman averaged 16.7 points and 7.0 rebounds per game on 39.7% from three.

Porter’s health and consistency will be vital as the Nuggets aim for another championship. His ability to contribute on both ends of the floor will determine how well Denver can sustain its success. Porter’s contract reflects his potential to be a long-term contributor to the Nuggets because the team needs him at his best to try to win a second NBA title in three seasons.

10. Desmond Bane - $34,005,250

Desmond Bane , earning $34 million, is emerging as a star for the Memphis Grizzlies after posting 23.7 points, 4.4 rebounds, and 5.5 assists per game last season. With a per-game earning of approximately $414,692, Bane’s shooting and defensive versatility make him a key player for Memphis as they aim to contend in the Western Conference. His ability to space the floor and score in bunches is vital to the Grizzlies’ success.

Bane’s continued growth will be important as the Grizzlies look to take the next step as contenders. His contributions on both ends of the court will be essential in helping Memphis navigate the challenges of the Western Conference. Bane’s salary reflects his rising status in the league alongside superstar point guard Ja Morant.

11. Khris Middleton - $31,666,667

Khris Middleton , earning $31.7 million this season, remains a very highly-paid player for the Milwaukee Bucks even if he is past his prime. This salary breaks down to about $385,670 per game. Middleton’s ability to score, defend, and facilitate makes him a perfect complement to Giannis Antetokounmpo and Damian Lillard. The Bucks will still rely on Middleton’s experience and clutch play as they aim for another title.

With Milwaukee among the favorites to win the championship, Middleton’s health and consistency will be key. His ability to deliver in the postseason, as he did in 2021, will be crucial for the Bucks. However, there are doubts that Middleton can return to his best level and that means he is overpaid at the moment.

12. Devin Vassell - $29,347,826

Devin Vassell is set to earn $29.3 million this season, roughly $356,681 per game, as he continues to develop with the San Antonio Spurs. Vassell’s growth as a scorer and defender will be vital for a Spurs team focused on rebuilding around Victor Wembanyama. His ability to provide consistent offense will be key to San Antonio’s success.

Vassell's performance (19.5 PPG, 4.1 APG) will be closely watched as the Spurs prioritize developing their young talent. His role as a two-way player is critical for San Antonio’s future, and his salary reflects the organization’s belief in his potential. Hopefully, he can start showing some All-Star potential in the upcoming season.

13. Miles Bridges - $27,173,913

Miles Bridges returns to the Charlotte Hornets with a $27.2 million salary, earning approximately $330,169 per game. After missing the previous season, Bridges will be looking to reestablish himself as a key player for Charlotte. His athleticism and scoring ability will be crucial as the Hornets aim to compete for a playoff spot.

Bridges’ return adds a dynamic element to the Hornets’ offense, and his ability to contribute on both ends of the floor will be vital. The Hornets are banking on Bridges to be a difference-maker as they look to build around LaMelo Ball and get him more help going forward.

14. Andrew Wiggins - $26,276,786

Andrew Wiggins is set to earn $26.3 million this season, or about $319,246 per game, as a key player for the Golden State Warriors . Wiggins’ defensive versatility and ability to score efficiently make him an essential part of the Warriors’ system. His contributions were instrumental in Golden State’s 2022 championship run, and the team will rely on him again this season.

Wiggins’ ability to guard multiple positions and contribute offensively will be crucial as the Warriors look to remain contenders in the West. However, the Warriors could be looking to trade Wiggins (13.2 PPG, 4.5 RPG) and we don't see a way the player stays with the franchise for the long term.

15. Kyle Kuzma - $23,522,727

Kyle Kuzma will earn $23.5 million this season, approximately $285,640 per game, as one of the Washington Wizards’ primary scorers. Kuzma’s ability to create his own shot and rebound effectively makes him a central figure in the Wizards’ offense. As Washington transitions to a new era, Kuzma’s leadership and scoring will be key.

The Wizards are counting on Kuzma to be a consistent presence as they develop their young core headlined by Alexandre Sarr. His performance this season will determine his long-term role with the team and we anticipate the player to put up numbers close to the 22.2 points per game he averaged in 2023-24.

16. DeMar DeRozan - $23,400,000

DeMar DeRozan , earning $23.4 million this season, will be part of an exciting roster with the Sacramento Kings in 2024-25. This salary equates to about $284,146 per game. DeRozan’s mid-range scoring and veteran leadership are key to the Kings’ hopes of returning to the playoffs. His experience and consistency make him a reliable option in crunch time.

The Kings will rely on DeRozan’s ability to lead the team and deliver in key moments. As one of the league’s most respected veterans, DeRozan’s contributions will be crucial for Sacramento's success this season because a core of De'Aaron Fox and Domantas Sabonis fits his skills perfectly.

17. Mikal Bridges - $23,300,000

Mikal Bridges will earn $23.3 million this season, earning roughly $282,927 per game, as the new starting small forward for the New York Knicks. Bridges’ defensive prowess and improved offensive game make him a central figure in the team's plans. As the Knicks try to go for the NBA title, Bridges’ two-way impact will be essential for their success.

Bridges’ ability to guard the opponent’s best player while contributing offensively makes him one of the most valuable wings in the league. The 2021-22 All-Defensive swingman averaged 19.6 points and 4.5 rebounds per game last season and if he can continue those averages, the Knicks will be a major problem in the East.

18. Jaden McDaniels - $23,017,242

Jaden McDaniels, earning $23 million this season, or about $279,469 per game, is a rising star for the Minnesota Timberwolves. Known for his defensive versatility and growing offensive game, McDaniels is becoming a key player for Minnesota as they aim to build around Anthony Edwards and Karl-Anthony Towns.

McDaniels’ ability to guard multiple positions and contribute offensively makes him a valuable asset. The Timberwolves will rely on his continued development to help them contend in the West. His salary reflects his potential to become one of the league’s top two-way players.

19. Dillon Brooks - $22,255,493

Dillon Brooks, earning $22.3 million, will be a key defensive presence for the Houston Rockets. With a per-game earning of approximately $270,183, Brooks’ tenacity and ability to guard multiple positions make him a valuable addition to Houston’s young roster. His leadership and defensive mindset will be important as the Rockets look to improve.

Brooks’ impact on both ends of the floor will be critical as Houston aims to develop its young core headlined by Alperen Sengun and Jalen Green. Even if Brooks often gets criticized for not being a consistent offensive player, he adds consistent defense for the Rockets and that isn't easy to find in the NBA.

20. Luguentz Dort - $16,500,000

Luguentz Dort will earn $16.5 million this season, or about $200,000 per game, as a defensive specialist for the Oklahoma City Thunder. Dort’s ability to guard the league’s top scorers and contribute offensively (10.9 PPG, 3.6 RPG, 0.9 SPG) makes him a crucial part of the Thunder’s rebuilding process. His toughness and versatility are valued by the team.

As Oklahoma City continues to develop its young talent, Dort’s role as a defensive leader will be essential. His ability to contribute on both ends of the floor makes him a key player for the Thunder who will be looking for a deep playoff run in 2024-25.

Related: 20 Highest-Paid NBA Point Guards For The 2024-25 Season

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