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

Like the small forward position, power forwards are paid a premium in today’s NBA if they can do multiple things on the court including scoring, defending, and rebounding. Some of the best power forwards in the NBA include superstar Giannis Antetokounmpo, a two-time MVP, and some budding stars, including Paolo Banchero, who look to reach another level in the upcoming season. As we saw with the small forwards , here are the 20 highest-paid NBA power forwards in the 2024-25 season and what we expect from them.

1. Kevin Durant - $51,179,021

Kevin Durant enters the 2024-25 season as the highest-paid power forward in the league, making a staggering $51.2 million. With this salary, Durant earns approximately $623,000 per game. The Phoenix Suns are counting on him to be their go-to scorer (27.1 PPG) and veteran leader as they chase their first NBA title. Known for his scoring efficiency and clutch performances, Durant’s ability to stay healthy and maintain his elite level of play will be critical to the Suns’ championship hopes.

As the centerpiece of a star-studded Suns roster, Durant will also be expected to mentor younger players while co-leading the team alongside Devin Booker. The Suns are in win-now mode, and Durant's all-around game and leadership on and off the court will be vital. With championship aspirations, Durant’s performance this season could define his legacy as an all-time great.

2. Karl-Anthony Towns - $49,205,800

Karl-Anthony Towns is set to earn just over $49.2 million this season, translating to approximately $600,000 per game. As the face of the Minnesota Timberwolves, Towns is expected to carry a heavy load on both ends of the floor. Known for his shooting range and offensive versatility (21.8 PPG and 8.3 RPG on 41.6% from three, Towns will be pivotal as the Timberwolves aim to advance deep into the playoffs. His ability to stay healthy and contribute consistently will determine how far the Wolves can go in the ultra-competitive Western Conference.

With rising stars like Anthony Edwards on the team, Towns will also need to embrace a leadership role, helping to guide the Timberwolves’ young core. Minnesota is counting on Towns to elevate his game and be the anchor of both their offense and defense even if he helped the team make the Western Conference Finals last year.

3. Giannis Antetokounmpo - $48,787,676

Giannis Antetokounmpo, a two-time MVP and NBA champion, will earn nearly $48.8 million this season, totaling roughly $595,000 per game. The Milwaukee Bucks will once again rely heavily on Giannis to lead them both offensively and defensively after the superstar posted 30.4 points, 11.5 rebounds, and 6.5 assists per game. His ability to dominate in the paint, create for teammates, and defend multiple positions makes him one of the most valuable players in the league. With the Bucks in championship-or-bust mode, Giannis’s performance this season will be crucial.

Entering his prime, Giannis is expected to continue pushing the Bucks toward another deep playoff run. With a strong supporting cast around him, including new additions, the Bucks are poised to challenge for the title once again. Giannis’s leadership, intensity, and ability to take over games will be central to Milwaukee’s quest for another championship.

4. Pascal Siakam - $42,176,400

Pascal Siakam is set to earn $42.2 million this season, approximately $514,000 per game. As the leader of the Indiana Pacers, Siakam is expected to be the focal point of their offense (21.7 PPG) and a key contributor on defense (7.1 RPG, 0.8 SPG) alongside Tyrese Haliburton. The Pacers are in a transitional phase, but with Siakam’s versatile skill set, they are looking to remain competitive in the Eastern Conference. Siakam’s ability to score, rebound, and facilitate makes him invaluable to his team’s success.

For the Pacers to be in contention in the East, Siakam will need to maintain All-Star level play and possibly take his game to another level. With a younger supporting cast, Siakam’s leadership and experience will be crucial because he proved to be in the 2023-24 season when the team made the Eastern Conference Finals.

5. Zion Williamson - $36,725,670

Zion Williamson will earn nearly $36.7 million this season, which breaks down to about $448,000 per game. For the New Orleans Pelicans, the 2024-25 season revolves around Zion’s health and ability to stay on the court. When healthy, Zion is one of the most dominant and explosive players in the league, capable of taking over games with his power and athleticism. However, injuries have plagued his career, and the Pelicans’ playoff hopes hinge on his ability to play a full season.

Zion’s presence on the floor transforms the Pelicans into a potential contender in the Western Conference. With a young and talented roster around him, including Brandon Ingram, Zion has the tools to lead the Pelicans deep into the playoffs if he can stay healthy. Even after playing 70 games in the regular season, Williamson missed the postseason so there are doubts about his health.

6. Jayson Tatum - $34,848,340

Jayson Tatum is set to earn nearly $34.8 million this season, equating to around $425,000 per game. As the face of the Boston Celtics, Tatum is expected to continue his rise as one of the premier players in the NBA after posting 26.9 points and 8.1 rebounds per game while winning an NBA title. The Celtics have championship aspirations, and Tatum’s scoring, playmaking, and defensive versatility will be at the forefront of their campaign. With Boston’s talented roster, Tatum is positioned to lead the team back to the NBA Finals.

Having already established himself as a top-tier player, Tatum will be expected to take another leap, particularly in clutch situations. The Celtics’ success will largely depend on Tatum’s ability to perform consistently at an MVP level once again because they will be looking for back-to-back NBA championships.

7. Jerami Grant - $29,793,104

Jerami Grant is set to earn nearly $29.8 million this season, which equates to approximately $363,000 per game. As a veteran of the Portland Trail Blazers, Grant’s versatility on both ends of the floor will be crucial. With Damian Lillard gone, Grant is expected to take on a larger role in the offense (21.0 PPG, 3.5 RPG), providing scoring, defense, and leadership for a team in transition. His ability to stretch the floor and defend multiple positions makes him invaluable to Portland’s success.

The Blazers are rebuilding, and Grant’s experience and two-way play will be vital in helping guide the younger players. While Portland is clearly rebuilding, Grant’s presence provides stability and a veteran presence until the team pulls the trigger on him and trades for some young assets.

8. Julius Randle - $28,939,680

Julius Randle will earn nearly $28.9 million this season, roughly $353,000 per game. As one of the leaders of the New York Knicks, Randle is expected to anchor their offense while continuing to provide physicality and rebounding (24.0 PPG, 9.2 RPG, and 5.0 APG). Coming off a successful season, Randle and the Knicks are aiming to build on their recent playoff appearances and make a deeper run. Randle’s ability to score inside, hit outside shots, and distribute the ball will be key to the Knicks’ success.

The Knicks have bolstered their roster, and Randle’s leadership will be essential in helping the team reach its full potential. With New York’s passionate fanbase demanding success, Randle’s performance under pressure will be closely watched because the acquisition of Mikal Bridges and the re-signing of OG Anunoby has placed the Knicks on the map.

9. John Collins - $26,580,000

John Collins is set to earn $26.6 million this season, which equates to approximately $325,000 per game, and he has to be considered overpaid right now. Now with the Utah Jazz, Collins is expected to be a significant contributor to a young and rising team. Known for his athleticism and finishing ability (15.1 PPG, 8.5 RPG), Collins will be tasked with providing scoring and rebounding while fitting into a new system. His success in Utah could determine how quickly the Jazz can emerge as a playoff contender in the West.

Collins’ transition to Utah originally offered a fresh start after his time with the Atlanta Hawks but his impact wasn’t enough despite his solid production. The Jazz are building around a young core, and Collins’ experience and skill set will be vital in their development. If he can find his rhythm and play to his strengths, Collins could be a key piece in Utah’s push to return to postseason relevance.

10. Tobias Harris - $25,365,854

Tobias Harris will earn just over $25.3 million this season, or about $309,000 per game for his new team, the Detroit Pistons. Harris was brought in to help the team remain competitive in the Eastern Conference and also assist with budding All-Star Cade Cunningham’s growth.

With the Pistons rebuilding their roster, Harris’s ability to adapt and contribute in various roles will be critical. He will also be looked upon to step up as a veteran leader, especially in high-pressure situations. Harris averaged 17.2 points and 6.5 rebounds per game last season so those averages will certainly help the Pistons on the court.

11. Aaron Gordon - $22,841,455

Aaron Gordon (13.9 PPG, 6.5 RPG) is set to earn nearly $22.8 million this season, which breaks down to about $278,000 per game. As a core piece of the Denver Nuggets, Gordon’s defensive versatility and ability to finish at the rim make him invaluable. With an NBA championship to his name already, Gordon will be expected to continue his strong play as the Nuggets aim to return to the Finals. His role as a defensive stopper and secondary scorer is crucial to Denver’s balanced attack.

Gordon’s contributions often go beyond the box score, as his defensive impact and energy are vital to the Nuggets’ success. With Nikola Jokic and Jamal Murray leading the offense, Gordon’s ability to guard the opposing team’s best players and provide timely scoring makes him a key factor in Denver’s championship aspirations.

12. Cam Johnson - $22,500,000

Cam Johnson, at 28 years old, will earn $22.5 million this season, which comes out to roughly $274,000 per game. As one of the Brooklyn Nets’ key players, Johnson is expected to provide scoring and floor spacing for a team in transition. Known for his three-point shooting (39.1%) and defensive effort (0.8 SPG), Johnson’s role will likely expand as the Nets continue to rebuild around younger talent. His ability to knock down shots and defend multiple positions will be crucial for Brooklyn’s success.

With the Nets focusing on developing their young core, Johnson’s leadership and experience will be valuable. He will need to step up as a consistent scoring option while also setting an example on defense. As Brooklyn looks to stay competitive in the East, Johnson’s performance this season could be a determining factor in their playoff aspirations.

13. Patrick Williams - $18,000,000

The 22-year-old Patrick Williams is set to earn $18 million this season, which equates to around $219,000 per game. As a young, promising forward for the Chicago Bulls, Williams is expected to take a significant step forward in his development. Known for his defensive potential and ability to contribute on offense, Williams will be a key piece for a Bulls team looking to return to playoff contention.

His ability to play both forward positions and guard multiple spots on the floor makes him an integral part of Chicago’s plans. The Bulls are relying on Williams to grow into a more prominent role, particularly as they look to build around their younger talent with DeMar DeRozan gone and Zach LaVine on the trade market. If Williams can improve his consistency and expand his offensive game, he could become a cornerstone for the Bulls’ future.

14. Rui Hachimura - $17,000,000

Rui Hachimura will earn $17 million this season, or approximately $207,000 per game. After being traded to the Los Angeles Lakers, Hachimura quickly proved his value as a versatile forward who can score, defend, and rebound. As the Lakers aim for another championship, Hachimura’s role as a key contributor off the bench or in the starting lineup will be critical. His ability to provide scoring punch and defensive versatility makes him an important piece in the Lakers’ rotation.

With LeBron James and Anthony Davis leading the way, Hachimura will be expected to complement the stars by contributing in various ways. His performance in high-pressure moments, especially in the playoffs, will be vital to the Lakers’ success although the player will need to post more than 13.6 points and 4.3 rebounds per game.

15. PJ Washington - $15,500,000

PJ Washington is set to earn $15.5 million this season, which is reasonable considering he was the third-best player for the Mavericks in 2023-24. The forward averaged 12.9 points and 5.6 rebounds per game in the regular season but boosted his numbers to 13.0 points and 6.6 rebounds per game in the postseason.

For the Mavericks to take the next step and actually have a strong chance to win an NBA title instead of losing in the Finals, Washington will need to elevate his game further. His consistency and ability to contribute on both ends of the floor will be critical. If Washington can continue to develop, he could play a major role in the Mavericks’ immediate success and it would be well taken if that happens.

16. Grant Williams - $13,025,250

Grant Williams will earn just over $13 million this season after getting traded to the Charlotte Hornets. His ability to guard multiple positions and knock down three-pointers makes him a valuable asset for a title contender but his fit with the Hornets is questionable at best because he won’t affect the win-loss column that much.

If he can continue to excel in his role, Williams could be a key factor in helping the Hornets get better on both ends of the court alongside LaMelo Ball and Brandon Miller. The forward will always compete so he deserves credit for that and that is why he is the 16th-highest-paid power forward in the NBA.

17. Kelly Olynyk - $12,804,878

Kelly Olynyk is set to earn nearly $12.8 million this season, translating to around $156,000 per game. As a veteran presence on the Toronto Raptors, Olynyk’s shooting, passing, and basketball IQ will be essential for a young team. Olynyk’s ability to stretch the floor (38.7%) as a big man makes him a valuable piece in Toronto's rotation, especially in a system that values spacing and ball movement.

Olynyk will also be expected to mentor the Raptors' younger players and provide stability in key moments. His experience and skill set make him a versatile option for the team, who are looking to build on the presence of All-Star Scottie Barnes and improving players R.J. Barrett and Immanuel Quickley.

18. Paolo Banchero - $12,160,800

Paolo Banchero will earn over $12.1 million this season, which equates to approximately $148,000 per game. As the reigning Rookie of the Year, Banchero is expected to take on an even larger role for the Orlando Magic this season. His scoring, playmaking, and rebounding abilities have already made him the cornerstone of the Magic’s rebuild and the team is ready to make a playoff push.

Orlando is looking to make a push toward playoff contention by signing Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, and Banchero’s continued development will be central to their success. The All-Star averaged 22.6 points and 6.9 rebounds per game last year so expect similar numbers in 2024-25.

19. Alex Sarr - $11,245,680

Alex Sarr is set to earn over $11.2 million this season, or roughly $137,000 per game. As a highly-touted rookie for the Atlanta Hawks, Sarr is expected to make an immediate impact with his shot-blocking, athleticism, and defensive versatility. The Hawks are in a rebuilding phase, and Sarr’s development will be a major focus as the team looks to build around its young core featuring Trae Young (if he doesn’t get traded) and Jalen Johnson.

Sarr’s ability to adapt to the NBA and fulfill his potential will be crucial for the Hawks’ long-term success. If he can quickly adjust to the speed and physicality of the league, Sarr could become a cornerstone for Atlanta’s rebuilding efforts although he averaged just 5.5 points per game -- the lowest scoring average of any first-round pick who played at least four games in the summer league.

20. Evan Mobley - $11,227,657

Evan Mobley will earn just over $11.2 million this season, which breaks down to around $137,000 per game. As one of the Cleveland Cavaliers’ most promising young players, Mobley is expected to take another leap in his development. Known for his defensive prowess and versatility, Mobley’s growth will be central to Cleveland’s hopes of becoming a top contender in the Eastern Conference.

Mobley’s continued development, particularly on offense, could elevate the Cavaliers to new heights. With a young and talented roster led by Donovan Mitchell, Cleveland is aiming to build on its recent success, and Mobley’s performance will be critical to their goals. However, Mobley won’t be underpaid for long since he signed a five-year, $224 million extension with the Cavs.

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

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