$Every Team\'s Best Contract Of The 2015-16 NBA Season$

Every Team's Best Contract Of The 2015-16 NBA Season

By Chipper Murphy

Every Team's Best Contract Of The 2015-16 NBA Season

Stephen Curry Golden State Warriors — The summer of 2015 was wild with free agency spending and 2016 figures to be equally absurd, possibly even more. With the salary cap expanding, teams won't just be spending more money, but will be forced to under league rules. The contracts that fans considered good value are disappearing as the average annual salary for a new 2015 free agent contract was roughly million. Let's look at some good contracts while we can still say they exist.

30. Atlanta Hawks: Al Horford -- One Year, $12 Million Remaining

Al Horford Atlanta Hawks

30. Atlanta Hawks: Al Horford -- One Year, $12 Million Remaining

Al Horford Atlanta Hawks — Al Horford is currently on the final year of his five-year, $60 million extension signed back in the summer of 2010. It has turned out to be one of the best contracts in Hawks franchise history as Horford has since become one of the league's most versatile big men. His ability to post up combined with his mid-range game has made him the franchise's most valuable player.

29. Boston Celtics: Isaiah Thomas -- Three Years, $20 Million Remaining

Isaiah Thomas Boston Celtics

29. Boston Celtics: Isaiah Thomas -- Three Years, $20 Million Remaining

Isaiah Thomas Boston Celtics — Isaiah Thomas has found the perfect fit in Boston. For as good as their defense is, they don't have the All-Star talent that is needed to take the next step, so his instant offense makes him an integral part of their success. The Celtics got an incredible steal when they traded for Thomas last season.

28. Brooklyn Nets: Shane Larkin -- Two Years, $3 Million Remaining

Shane Larkin Brooklyn Nets

28. Brooklyn Nets: Shane Larkin -- Two Years, $3 Million Remaining

Shane Larkin Brooklyn Nets — Brooklyn Nets executive Billy King has little to boast about during his tenure but his discount signing of Shane Larkin — after Larkin's disappointing season with the Knicks' — has turned out to be an incredible bargain. The third-year point guard is making nearly half of his three-pointers and with the inconsistent play of starter Jarrett Jack, he's been a great asset as a backup.

27. Charlotte Hornets: Jeremy Lamb -- Four Years, $24 Million Remaining

Jeremy Lamb Charlotte Hornets

27. Charlotte Hornets: Jeremy Lamb -- Four Years, $24 Million Remaining

Jeremy Lamb Charlotte Hornets — Jeremy Lamb signed a three-year, $21 million extension, and it was a bit of a surprise. After all, he hadn't played a single game for the Charlotte Hornets, and his career had largely been a disappointment. Not only is his contract a bargain, but all Charlotte gave up for him was Luke Ridnour and a second-round pick. The trade and contract are a steal as Lamb has turned into one of the most valuable bench players in the league.

26. Chicago Bulls: Pau Gasol -- One Year, $7 Million Remaining, w/PO

Pau Gasol Chicago Bulls

26. Chicago Bulls: Pau Gasol -- One Year, $7 Million Remaining, w/PO

Pau Gasol Chicago Bulls — Pau Gasol made just $7 million last year and started in the All-Star game. He took less money to play in Chicago because he wanted to win, and he knew his Lakers weren't the place for that anymore. Gasol might be a trade candidate right now, but he is still a great player with one of the best contracts in the league. Chicago would be foolish to move him.

25. Cleveland Cavaliers: Mo Williams -- One Year, $2.1 million Remaining, w/PO

Mo Williams Cleveland Cavaliers

25. Cleveland Cavaliers: Mo Williams -- One Year, $2.1 Million Remaining, w/PO

Mo Williams Cleveland Cavaliers — Mo Williams came back to the Cavaliers to help fill in during Kyrie Irving's absence. He kept the ship afloat, keeping Cleveland in first place and shooting the ball well like he was expected to. Due to his history in Cleveland and his rapport with LeBron James, Williams is more valuable there than with any other team. With the Cavs financial situation, getting an important piece at such a reasonable price was extremely helpful.

24. Dallas Mavericks: Dirk Nowitzki -- One Year, $8 Million Remaining, w/PO

Dirk Nowitzki Dallas Mavericks

24. Dallas Mavericks: Dirk Nowitzki -- One Year, $8 Million Remaining, w/PO

Dirk Nowitzki Dallas Mavericks — Dirk Nowitzki restructured his contract for the second straight offseason for less money so Dallas could sign Wesley Matthews. Nowitzki's selflessness is no longer surprising as his die-hard loyalty to the Mavericks and close friendship with owner Mark Cuban are well-documented. He's the best player in the franchise's history, and when you look at what the Lakers had to do with Kobe Bryant, it only makes you appreciate him more.

23. Denver Nuggets: Will Barton -- Three Years, $11 Million Remaining

Will Barton Denver Nuggets

23. Denver Nuggets: Will Barton -- Three Years, $11 Million Remaining

Will Barton Denver Nuggets — Will Barton is having a breakout season and is on the early list of candidates for the Sixth Man of the Year Award. Due to his previously mediocre career, Barton is only making $3.5 million this season and for the next two as well. If he can continue this progress, then the 24-year-old will become one of the best value contracts in the NBA.

22. Detroit Pistons: Andre Drummond -- One Year, $3 Million Remaining

Andre Drummond Detroit Pistons

22. Detroit Pistons: Andre Drummond -- One Year, $3 Million Remaining

Andre Drummond Detroit Pistons — Andre Drummond is still on his rookie contract, and Detroit is getting incredible value for his $3 million salary. He's averaging 18.3 PPG and 16.3 RPG, while shooting 51.8 percent from the floor. There have been reports that he is going to get a huge extension starting next season, and Detroit will likely need to shell it out after this hot start.

21. Golden State Warriors: Stephen Curry -- Two Years, $23 Million Remaining

Stephen Curry Golden State Warriors

21. Golden State Warriors: Stephen Curry -- Two Years, $23 Million Remaining

Stephen Curry Golden State Warriors — Stephen Curry is the best player in the league right now, and he has a smaller salary than Tristan Thompson. His salary for the season is slightly over $11 million, and he's having one of the best seasons in NBA history. Curry's contract could go down as the greatest of all time.

20. Houston Rockets: Clint Capela -- Two Years, $2.5 Million Remaining, w/TO

Clint Capela Houston Rockets

20. Houston Rockets: Clint Capela -- Two Years, $2.5 Million Remaining, w/TO

Houston Rockets Clint Capela — Clint Capela is still on his rookie deal. In just his second season, he has taken steps towards becoming one of the league's best defensive big men. Last year was a struggle for him as he only played 90 minutes for the entire season, but now he is even getting on the court with Dwight Howard. His dominance inside on both ends has been a focal point, and with the possible departure of Howard, he could become the center of the future.

19. Indiana Pacers: C.J. Miles -- Two Years, $9 Million Remaining, w/PO

C.J. Miles Indiana Pacers

19. Indiana Pacers: C.J. Miles -- Two Years, $9 Million Remaining, w/PO

C.J. Miles Indiana Pacers — C.J. Miles has embraced the Pacers new offensive system, averaging over seven three-point attempts per game and making them at a near 40 percent clip. With the struggles of Monta Ellis, Miles is second on the team in scoring, averaging 14.6 PPG. Without Miles' contributions there's no way that Indiana would be 17-12 and fifth in the Eastern Conference.

18. Los Angeles Clippers: J.J. Redick -- Two Years, $14 Million Remaining

J.J. Redick Los Angeles Clippers

18. Los Angeles Clippers: J.J. Redick -- Two Years, $14 Million Remaining

J.J. Redick Los Angeles Clippers — Doc Rivers' most impressive accomplishment as an executive is signing J.J. Redick. When Rivers signed him, there was criticism that he paid to much, and according to Redick even then team owner Donald Sterling didn't want him. Now Redick is one of the Clippers most important assets, in the top five in the league in three-point percentage and true shooting percentage, and his chemistry with Chris Paul makes him indispensable.

17. Los Angeles Lakers: Jordan Clarkson -- One Year, Less Than $1 Million Remaining

Jordan Clarkson Los Angeles Lakers

17. Los Angeles Lakers: Jordan Clarkson -- One Year, Less Than $1 Million Remaining

Jordan Clarkson Los Angeles Lakers — This was a really hard one. I narrowed it down to Clarkson and Brandon Bass. Yes, Brandon Bass who averages slightly over five points per game. I had to go with Clarkson because he is going to be a part of the franchise's future, and I can't say that for most of the rest of the team.

16. Memphis Grizzlies: Mike Conley -- One Year, $9 Million Remaining

Mike Conley Memphis Grizzlies

16. Memphis Grizzlies: Mike Conley -- One Year, $9 Million Remaining

Mike Conley Memphis Grizzlies — Memphis has had Mike Conley at a serious bargain price for his entire career, which is why he will undoubtedly be looking for a serious payday this summer. For now though, he continues to be one of the league's best deals while working on the last season of a five-year, $40 million deal.

15. Miami Heat: Justise Winslow -- Two Years, $5 Million Remaining, w/TO

Justise Winslow Miami Heat

15. Miami Heat: Justise Winslow -- Two Years, $5 Million Remaining, w/TO

Justise Winslow Miami Heat — Justise Winslow has already made a serious impact in his rookie year, becoming Miami's sixth man and primary defensive stopper. If he develops a three-point shot he can become one of the better wing players in the league.

14. Milwaukee Bucks: Giannis Antetokounmpo -- Two Years, $5 Million Remaining

Giannis Antetokounmpo Milwaukee Bucks

14. Milwaukee Bucks: Giannis Antetokounmpo -- Two Years, $5 Million Remaining

Giannis Antetokounmpo Milwaukee Bucks — Giannis Antetokounmpo has cooled off after his incredibly hot start and Milwaukee has been a giant disappointment. He's still making just under $2 million this year, an incredible bargain for his production.

13. Minnesota Timberwolves: Karl-Anthony Towns -- Two Years, $11 Million Remaining, w/TO

Karl-Anthony Towns Minnesota Timberwolves

13. Minnesota Timberwolves: Karl-Anthony Towns -- Two Years, $11 Million Remaining, w/TO

Karl-Anthony Towns Minnesota Timberwolves — Karl-Anthony Towns has been every bit as good as advertised and more for the Timberwolves. He's not just playing defense like he was supposed to, but he's also making threes and scoring at a high rate. The argument can be made for Wiggins here, but Towns being under contract longer gives him the edge.

12. New Orleans Pelicans: Anthony Davis -- Six Years, $126 Million Remaining

Anthony Davis New Orleans Pelicans

12. New Orleans Pelicans: Anthony Davis -- Six Years, $126 Million Remaining

Anthony Davis New Orleans Pelicans — Anthony Davis makes just over $7 million this year, starting in on his enormous extension next season. As terrible as the Pelicans may look right now, they are only paying $7 million for one of the best players in the league.

11. New York Knicks: Kristaps Porzingis -- Two Years, $8 Million Remaining, w/TO

Kristaps Porzingis New York Knicks

11. New York Knicks: Kristaps Porzingis -- Two Years, $8 Million Remaining, w/TO

Kristaps Porzingis New York Knicks — Kristaps Porzingis has gone from rookie project to legitimate scoring threat in less than half of a season. He's in the running for Rookie of the Year and could take the torch from Carmelo Anthony as the franchise player sooner rather than later.

10. Oklahoma City Thunder: Russell Westbrook -- Two Years, $34 Million Remaining

Russell Westbrook Oklahoma City Thunder

10. Oklahoma City Thunder: Russell Westbrook -- Two Years, $34 Million Remaining

Russell Westbrook Oklahoma City Thunder — Russell Westbrook makes nearly $17 million this season, so it's crazy to say he has a good contract right? Not when there are 16 players who are making more than he does. He's one of the five best players in the NBA and eventually he will get the $20 million per season salary that shows it, but until then Oklahoma City has a good deal on their hands.

9. Orlando Magic: Nikola Vucevic -- Four Years, $48 Million Remaining

Nikola Vucevic Orlando Magic

9. Orlando Magic: Nikola Vucevic -- Four Years, $48 Million Remaining

Nikola Vucevic Orlando Magic — Orlando's $48 million extension to Nikola Vucevic is going to turn out to be an excellent move, because he continues to get better and they have surrounded the young big man with players and now a head coach who can help. Tobias Harris has the team's highest salary, but without Vucevic Orlando is going nowhere.

8. Philadelphia 76ers: Jahlil Okafor -- Two Years, $9.3 Million Remaining, w/TO

Jahlil Okafor Philadelphia 76ers

8. Philadelphia 76ers: Jahlil Okafor -- Two-Years, $9.3 Million Remaining, w/TO

Jahlil Okafor Philadelphia 76ers — Jahlil Okafor is the answer by default. Other than Nerlens Noel, none of the other 76ers' contracts even matter.

7. Phoenix Suns: Eric Bledsoe -- Four Years, $60 Million Remaining

Eric Blesdoe Phoenix Suns

7. Phoenix Suns: Eric Bledsoe -- Four Years, $60 Million Remaining

Eric Bledsoe Phoenix Suns — Eric Bledsoe is having the best season of his career and is playing like an All-Star, so a $13 million salary looks pretty modest. With all the problems the Suns are having, Bledsoe is a much-needed bright spot.

6. Portland Trail Blazers: Damian Lillard -- Six Years, $124 Million Remaining

Damian Lillard Portland Trail Blazers

6. Portland Trail Blazers: Damian Lillard -- Six Years, $124 Million Remaining

Damian Lillard Portland Trail Blazers — Like Anthony Davis, Lillard has a huge extension that kicks in next season. In 2015-16, however, he's the fifth highest paid player on the team with a salary of just over $4 million. That's all while he's leading the team in points, assists, and minutes played.

5. Sacramento Kings: DeMarcus Cousins -- Three Years, $50 million guaranteed

DeMarcus Cousins Sacramento Kings

5. Sacramento Kings: DeMarcus Cousins -- Three Years, $50 Million Guaranteed

DeMarcus Cousins Sacramento Kings — DeMarcus Cousins makes roughly $14 million this season, an incredible salary for arguably the best center in the NBA who is just 25 years old and still getting better. Trading Cousins would be the biggest mistake in Sacramento Kings franchise history.

4. San Antonio Spurs: Tim Duncan -- One Year, $5 Million Remaining, w/PO

Tim Duncan San Antonio Spurs

4. San Antonio Spurs: Tim Duncan -- One Year, $5 Million Remaining, w/PO

Tim Duncan San Antonio Spurs — Tim Duncan is in the same vein as Dirk in terms of selflessness and loyalty to one team for an entire career. Duncan knew that the Spurs were getting LaMarcus Aldridge, and took less money so that they could give both Aldridge and incumbent Spur Kawhi Leonard max-contracts. His financial sacrifice has paid off as San Antonio is now the clear second-best team in the league.

3. Toronto Raptors: Jonas Valanciunas -- Four Years, $50 Million Remaining, w/PO

Jonas Valanciunas Toronto Raptors

3. Toronto Raptors: Jonas Valanciunas -- Four Years, $50 Million Remaining, w/PO

Jonas Valanciunas Toronto Raptors — Jonas Valanciunas makes less than $5 million this year before his new extension kicks in for the 2016-17 season. His salary shoots up to over $14 million, a number that he has yet to prove he deserves. That doesn't mean he can't prove it, it means he would just be a better fit somewhere else, perhaps on a team without a starting backcourt that dominates the ball all game long.

2. Utah Jazz: Rudy Gobert -- Two Years, $3 Million Remaining

Rudy Gobert Utah Jazz

2. Utah Jazz: Rudy Gobert -- Two Years, $3 Million Remaining

Rudy Gobert Utah Jazz — Since Rudy Gobert was injured, the Jazz have been uncharacteristically bad on defense, allowing 102 points per game en route to a 4-8 record. With Gobert, Utah is still the same top five defense in the league and a force to be reckoned with. He's undoubtedly the the MVP on his team and that easily puts him in this spot.

1. Washington Wizards: Bradley Beal -- One Year, $5 Million Remaining

Bradley Beal Washington Wizards

1. Washington Wizards: Bradley Beal -- One Year, $5 Million Remaining

Bradley Beal Washington Wizards — Bradley Beal's rookie contract is expiring and the Wizards disappointing 2014-15 season may have them looking towards the future anyway. Nevertheless, his $5 million salary is a great deal for one of the NBA's best shooting guards who is only going to get better as he enters his prime.

Chipper Murphy is a Beat Writer for the New York Knicks on www.RantSports.com. Follow him on Twitter @ChipperMurphy or Google. “Like” him on Facebook.

Share On Facebook

Share