In the NBA, financial savvy can be the difference between the playoffs and a championship. This list highlights the 12 best contracts for a team, where the players' production far exceeds their salary.
12. Tyus Jones – Phoenix Suns
The nation acquired Tyus Jones on a one-year, $3 million contract, which is the amount of a player who started for the Wizards last season. While short-term deals are often thrown out, Jones' value makes this contract stand out as a valuable acquisition for a team with championship aspirations.
11. Jalen Brunson – New York Knicks
Jalen Brunson received a four-year, $157 million extension, starting at $34.9 million next season. As important as it is, this deal is a win for the Knicks, who are keeping their franchise player at a below-average price, getting a valuable piece of their roster.
10. Deni Avdija – Portland Trail Blazers
Deni Avdija's four-year, $55 million contract is solid value for the Blazers. With a salary cap structure, Avdija's deal gives Portland a young, developing player at an affordable price, making it a very favorable deal for the team.
9. Caleb Martin – Philadelphia 76ers
Caleb Martin signed a four-year, $35 million contract with the 76ers after a dominant season with the Heat. At just $8.8 million per year, Martin brings valuable playing experience and solid production to a contending Philadelphia team.
8. Payton Pritchard – Boston Celtics
Payton Pritchard's four-year, $30 million extension is one of the best deals on the rookie scale. Pritchard's role increased last season, averaging 9.6 points per game, making his $7.5 million annual salary an excellent value for a team heavily invested in top-level talent.
7. Max Strus – Cleveland Cavaliers
Max Strus was signed by the Cavaliers for four years at $62.3 million. Strus contributed heavily during Cleveland's 48-win season and playoff run. With the salary increase, Strus' $15.9 million per year contract is a solid deal for Cleveland.
6. Grayson Allen – Phoenix Suns
Grayson Allen's four-year, $70 million extension is a big deal for the Suns. Leading the NBA in three-point shooting at 46.1 percent last season, Allen's $17.5 million per-season salary is a boon for an elite shooter who can contribute as a secondary.
5. Herbert Jones III – New Orleans Pelicans
Herbert Jones III signed a four-year, $53.8 million contract, providing the Pelicans with excellent value. Jones, a first-team All-Defensive honoree, also averaged 11 points per game, making his $13.9 million annual salary bigger as the cap continues to rise.
4. Donte DiVincenzo – New York Knicks
Donte DiVincenzo's four-year, $49.9 million contract is another strong move for the Knicks. DiVincenzo, who stepped up during the Knicks' postseason run, is a solid $12 million a year, providing flexibility and depth to the roster.
3. Aaron Nesmith – Indiana Pacers
Aaron Nesmith's $11 million per year extension is a steal for the Pacers. Nesmith, who played a key role in Indiana's postseason run, offers solid defense and shooting, making his contract a great value.
2. Jonathan Isaac – Orlando Magic
Jonathan Isaac's restructured deal with the Magic is at the height of team-friendly contracts. His four-year, $59 million extension, with significant non-guaranteed years, gives Orlando financial flexibility while retaining top defensive talent.
1. Aaron Wiggins – Oklahoma City Thunder
Aaron Wiggins' five-year, $47 million contract tops the list. Wiggins, who shot 49.2 percent from three last season, is signed to a salary cap, making his contract worth more as the salary increases. His team-friendly deal will be important as the Thunder continue to develop their young core.
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