Anthony Davis, Tatum, Giannis lead list of NBA’s top-paid power forwards (2025–26)

The National Basketball Association (NBA) remains the richest and most popular basketball league in the world, showcasing elite talent from across the globe. With its ever-growing popularity, player contracts have skyrocketed to unprecedented levels — and the upcoming 2025–26 season is setting a new financial benchmark.

Power forwards continue to be a crucial part of any championship-caliber team, offering strength, rebounding, interior scoring, and defensive presence around the rim. Here’s a look at the five highest-paid power forwards heading into the new season:

1. Anthony Davis (Dallas Mavericks) – $54,126,450

Anthony Davis remains one of the NBA’s top power forwards — dominant when healthy. However, his frequent injury issues have made him an inconsistent presence, rarely completing a full season without setbacks.

Now 32, Davis is expected to be the centerpiece of the Dallas Mavericks, who made waves by trading Luka Dončić to the Los Angeles Lakers in exchange for him. At over $54 million this season, Davis must stay healthy and consistent to justify the Mavericks’ massive investment.

2. Jayson Tatum (Boston Celtics) – $54,126,450

Jayson Tatum is undoubtedly the face of the Boston Celtics and one of the league’s most elite players. He led Boston to the 2023–24 NBA Championship and was rewarded with a five-year, $314 million contract extension — the richest deal in NBA history.

A six-time All-Star, Tatum is worth every penny. However, the Celtics will be without him for much of the upcoming season as he recovers from an Achilles injury.

3. Giannis Antetokounmpo (Milwaukee Bucks) – $54,126,450

A two-time NBA MVP and 2021 NBA Champion, Giannis Antetokounmpo continues to be one of the most dominant and marketable players in the league. His impact on both ends of the floor makes his $54 million salary seem like a bargain.

The “Greek Freak” remains the centerpiece of the Milwaukee Bucks and is a surefire future Hall of Famer.

4. Lauri Markkanen (Utah Jazz) – $46,394,100

Lauri Markkanen has evolved into one of the NBA’s most reliable scoring forwards. He was named 2023 NBA Most Improved Player and has since secured a lucrative contract extension from the Utah Jazz.

The Jazz are betting big on Markkanen to be a cornerstone for the franchise’s future. The pressure will now be on him to live up to those expectations.

5. Evan Mobley (Cleveland Cavaliers) – $46,394,100

The reigning NBA Defensive Player of the Year, Evan Mobley is the defensive anchor for the Cleveland Cavaliers. His versatility, rim protection, and mobility make him one of the most valuable young big men in the league.

At 24, Mobley still has room to grow offensively, but the Cavaliers believe he has the potential to become a dominant two-way superstar. If he reaches that ceiling, his salary will be more than justified.

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