Highest Payrolls in the NBA That Will Make Your Jaw Drop
Money talks in the NBA, and right now it’s shouting. The 2025–26 season has brought in eye-popping payrolls that would make even the most loyal fans blink twice. Given that the salary cap is climbing and teams are going all-in for a shot at the Larry O’Brien Trophy, front offices are writing some of the biggest checks in league history.
Here are the ten teams spending the most, along with the stars behind those massive numbers.
Cleveland Cavaliers – $242.3 Million
Image via Wikimedia Commons/Erik Drost
The Cavaliers are handing out payouts like they expect a parade. Donovan Mitchell, Darius Garland, and Jarrett Allen are all on huge deals. They’ve gone all-in on their young core, and anything short of a Finals appearance will feel like a disappointment. Cleveland is betting that stability and star power will keep them at the top of the East after strong playoff runs.
Minnesota Timberwolves – $237.3 Million
The Timberwolves have become one of the league’s biggest spenders thanks to Anthony Edwards, now the face of the franchise. After trips to the Western Conference Finals, Minnesota doubled down on keeping its stars and depth intact. This year’s payroll is a clear sign that they’re not settling for near misses.
Golden State Warriors – $234.4 Million
Image via Wikimedia Commons/Keith Allison from Hanover, MD, USA
Even with aging stars, the Warriors are still cutting enormous checks. Stephen Curry remains the league’s highest-paid player, and the addition of Jimmy Butler only inflated the bill. Golden State has tied up 68% of its payroll in its top three players, so this season might be their last push before major roster changes hit the budget.
Dallas Mavericks – $220.5 Million
The Mavericks are starting fresh without Luka Dončić, who joined the Lakers. Their payroll remains massive because they acquired Anthony Davis and the No. 1 draft pick, Cooper Flagg. The team’s rebuild involves experience with youth and signals a shift toward long-term growth while staying competitive in the West.
Los Angeles Lakers – $210.8 Million
There’s never a quiet season in L.A. Considering that LeBron James is still playing at an elite level, the Lakers are again among the top spenders. After acquiring Dončić from Dallas, they’ve built one of the league’s most marketable and high-scoring lineups. Every dollar reflects a win-now mentality as LeBron’s career winds down.
Phoenix Suns – $210.1 Million
Phoenix finds itself in financial trouble, with money tied up in contracts for players who are no longer on the roster. Kevin Durant, Devin Booker, and Bradley Beal remain high-priced names, but the on-court chemistry hasn’t matched the cost. The Suns have to find a way to turn their payroll into wins before another disappointing season sinks them further.
New York Knicks – $209.1 Million
Image via Wikimedia Commons/Erik Drost
The Knicks have finally shed their reputation for conservative spending. With Jalen Brunson, Karl-Anthony Towns, and Mikal Bridges leading the charge, New York’s roster is built to compete deep into the playoffs. The franchise hasn’t reached the Conference Finals in over two decades, and this year’s record payroll aims to change that.
Sacramento Kings – $208.3 Million
Sacramento’s ownership is showing faith in De’Aaron Fox and Domantas Sabonis by handing them huge extensions. The Kings missed the playoffs last season but are banking on their investment to spark a comeback similar to their 2023 success.
Boston Celtics – $206.6 Million
Image via Wikimedia Commons/Hameltion
Boston looks very different with Jayson Tatum sidelined due to injury and Jrue Holiday, as well as Kristaps Porziņģis, traded. Jaylen Brown and Derrick White now carry the load and the expectations that come with their contracts. Their challenge is to keep the Celtics near the top of the East while maintaining chemistry with a reshaped lineup.
Denver Nuggets – $204.1 Million
Rounding out the top ten are the reigning champions of balanced spending. Nikola Jokić continues to dominate, and keeping him happy means paying his supporting cast well. Denver’s payroll strikes a smart balance between star salaries and solid depth, which keeps them in the title race year after year.