The 2026-27 NBA season will feature two of basketball’s biggest icons in very different financial situations. While Stephen Curry remains the NBA’s highest-paid player, LeBron James will earn only a fraction of that amount after taking a significant pay cut to join the Philadelphia 76ers in pursuit of another championship.
Here’s a look at how the salaries of the two future Hall of Famers compare heading into the upcoming season.
Stephen Curry’s Salary for the 2026-27 NBA Season
Golden State Warriors superstar Stephen Curry is set to earn $62,587,158 during the 2026-27 NBA season.
The four-time NBA champion continues to lead the league in annual salary thanks to the long-term contract extension he signed with Golden State. Curry’s salary once again places him atop the NBA’s earnings list, highlighting the Warriors’ commitment to the franchise legend.
LeBron James’ Salary for the 2026-27 NBA Season
LeBron James will earn approximately $4 million during the 2026-27 season after signing a reported two-year, $8 million contract with the Philadelphia 76ers.
The move surprised many around the league because James reportedly passed on much larger contracts in order to maximize Philadelphia’s championship window. The deal allows the 76ers greater financial flexibility while giving the NBA’s all-time leading scorer another opportunity to compete for a title.
Stephen Curry vs. LeBron James Salary Comparison
| Player | Team | 2026-27 Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Stephen Curry | Golden State Warriors | $62,587,158 |
| LeBron James | Philadelphia 76ers | Approximately $4 million |
Salary Difference
- Stephen Curry: $62.6 million
- LeBron James: Approximately $4.0 million
- Difference: Approximately $58.6 million
- Comparison: Curry will earn more than 15 times LeBron James’ salary during the 2026-27 season.
Why Is LeBron James Making So Much Less?
Unlike most superstar free agents, LeBron James prioritized roster construction over personal earnings.
By accepting a much smaller contract, James gave the 76ers additional salary cap flexibility to retain and acquire key players around him, increasing the team’s chances of competing for an NBA championship.
The move reflects a growing trend among veteran stars willing to sacrifice salary late in their careers in exchange for a stronger opportunity to win another title.
Curry Continues to Lead the NBA in Salary
Stephen Curry’s contract remains one of the richest in NBA history and reflects his immense value to the Golden State Warriors organization.
Beyond his four NBA championships, two MVP awards, and status as the NBA’s all-time leader in three-pointers made, Curry continues to be one of the league’s most marketable and impactful players both on and off the court.
Final Thoughts
The contrast between Stephen Curry’s and LeBron James’ salaries in the 2026-27 season highlights two very different career paths.
Curry continues to be rewarded with the NBA’s highest annual salary as the face of the Warriors franchise, while James has opted for a dramatically reduced contract in Philadelphia to maximize his chances of adding another championship before retirement.
Although Curry will make roughly $58.6 million more than James this season, both superstars remain among the most influential figures in basketball as they chase another NBA title.