1.האמריקאים לא הבינו לאן הם נפלו – לאבדון? לפח האשפה? – הערב בלונדון!

אלך לפי הסדר

• נראה שהחמישייה האמריקאית לאולימפיאדה תהיה ת'רו הולידיי, סטף קרי, דווין בוקר, לברון, וג'ואל אמביד. כך סטיב קר עלה, וכך יהיה.
• א ם אני הוא אני עולה עם אנטוני אדווארדס במקון דווין בוקר שמלבד שלשה אחת שיחק כחצי מת, כאילו לא היה, והייתי מחליף מהר, אבל מהר, את אמביד באנטוני דייויס.
• כשהמשחק היה בו דקה וחצי והיאנקים הובילו 2-12 חשבתי שמאחר וחמישייה אמריקאית שווה 200 מיליון לשנה וחמישייה דרום סודנית שווה 2 מיליון לשנה, 200 לחלק ב-2 זה 100, אז יהיה 100 הפרש. כשהסודנים הובילו 45-28 התחלתי לחשוב מה לכתוב לאתר אם הסודנים ינצחו על 50? (הרשו לי לכתוב סודנים במקום 'דרום סודנים'. אנחנו יודעים שהם דרום סודנים אז כדי לחסוך מילים הרשו לי לדלג על 'דרום')?
• מי הם הסודנים האלה? היי, כולם מקצוענים: מדוא משחק באוסטרליה, אמוט בסין, קרליק ג'ונס (שמעט ניצח את האמריקאים עם 15 נקודות וטריפל דאבל נפלא) משחק בפרטיזן. ה'מלוח (תקראו עליו באריכות ב-"2" הוא ילד בו 17, 2.18 מ', שהשנה ילמד באוניברסיטת דוק ובעוד שנה בדראפט של 2005 ייבחר בין 3 הראשונים).קווניי קווני משחק באוסטרליה. דנג משחק באוסטרליה (האם הוא בנו של דנג ששיחק 16 שנה ב-NBA והיום הוא עוזר מאמן דרום סודן? מאמן דרום סודן הוא עוזר מאמן יוסטון רוקטס).פיטר ג'וק משחק בצרפת. קוץ' בר, ה-2.13 מ' משחק בדנמרק, גבריאל במכבי ת"א, וסנדיי דק באוסטרליה.
• כשהרבע נגמר 26-24, והמולטימיליונרים לא מבינים מה נפל עליהם, בא לי להסביר להם: אלף הם משחקים נגד שחורים אמיתיים ללא טיפת דם לבן בעורם ולכן הם מהירים יותר, קפיציים יותר, אבל במקרה הזה של משחק הערב גם חכמים יותר, ובית, על אף מהירות הברק במשחקם הסודנים היו הערב רגועים ונינוחים יותר ולא מתרגשים מהשמות של האמריקאים.
• הרבע נגמר. 58-44. אני שואל את עצמי איך להסביר זאת לכל קוראי האתר בארץ הקודש? הסודנים גונבים לאמריקאים כדורים, ומשחקים כבעלי הבית ולא שמים קצוץ על שמות כלברון או סטף קרי. האמריקאים מבולבלים, לא מבינים מה נפל עליהם. מתחילים להתווכח על פאולים. אני בוש וניכלם: זאת ה-NBA הגדולה? אבל היי, אני לא בעל קבוצה ב-NBA ואין לי כל חלק ב-NBA. מצידי שיאכלו אותה היום על 40.
• אני יודע מה האמריקאים חושבים. הם חושבים שהסודנים יישברו במחצית השנייה כמו הסרבים ויהיה עוד נצחון על 30. אז יש לי חדשות עבור סטפן, לברון, או אנטוני: הסודנים לא יישברו. הם ימשיכו לגנוב לאמריקאים כדורים גם אם ישחקו 6 שעות.
• לא יאומן כי יסופר: ערך 12 האמריקאים בשכר בשנה הקרובה הוא בערך 480 מיליון דולארים. כמעט חצי מיליארד. הסודנים? אני מעריך שבערך 12 עד 18 מיליון. ועדיין הסודאנים הם הרגועים והאמריקאים מתחילים להתווכח על פאולים.
• האמריקאים רוצים לזכות בזהב בפאריז? אם ישחקו ככה גם נחושת הם לא יקבלו. שיחזרו הביתה כבר היום. חבל על הזמן.
• הנה פיטר ג'ור עובר את לברון כאילו היה שחקן בבית"ר גן-שמואל לסל קליל. מה בוקר עושה על הפארקט? הוא משחק כאילו שהוא באיזה שהוא חלום. הסודנים עושיםמ קליניקה לאמריקאים המבולבלים. סטיב קר על הספסל עם חיוך מסויים כזה. אם הוא יודע מה לעשות בנידון אז הוא יכול גם להפוך נקניקיה לגלידה. אני לא יודע אם אני מרחם עליו או צוחק לעידו.
• אבל טרוף כזה לא לעולם עומד. סטיב קר משחק כמעט את כל הרבע השלישי עם החמישייה השנייה אבל עםמ 3:50 לסיום הרבע הוא מחזיר את החמישייה, שמיד מצמצמת ל-76-68. לברון בדאנק עושה 76-70 ועושה שרירים כאילו הוא במשחק 7 של פלייאוף ולא נגד נבחרת דרום סודאן. אתה מרגיש שהאמריקאים מוכרחים לנצח ומשחקים לנצח ויהי מה. תרו הולידיי חותך ל-76-73, ודווין בוקר – סוף סוף! סוף סוף עושה משהו טוב וקובר שלשה לשוויון 76.
• לפתע בקהל צורחים 'USA! USA!'. לא מתביישים? נגד סודן? אוי ואבוי…לאן הגענו.
• סטף מאיזה 4 מטרים מאחורי הקשת מוציא את כל תסכולו בשלשה נפלאה. סוף סוף יתרון יאנקי 76-79.
• אמביד קולע סל והרבע השלישי נגמר 76-81
• אני מרגיש שעכשיו ברבע הרביעי האמיקאים יפתחו 20 הפרש.
• ב-84-90 המאמן קר מחליט פתאום להוריד את החמישייה ולהעלות את החמישייה השנייה.
• "מה פתאום" אני שואל את עצמי.
• קרליק גונס, גיבור המשחק ניכנס וניכנס. עכשיו הוא מצמצם ל-90-91.

ג'ונס הדרום סודני, השחקן הטוב על המגרש הערב

• ב-92-99 סטיב קר מחליט להוציא שני שחקני מהחמישיה השנייה ומכניס את סטפן קרי ולברון ג'יימס. הם משחקים עם דריק ווייט, אנטוני אדווארדס, ו-AD. "החמישייה השנייה שיחקה די בסדר. אז מה פתאום להכניס את לברון וסטף?" – אני שואל את עצמי.
• ההחלטה הזאת כמעט עלתה לסטיב קר במשחק. הסודאנים מצמצמים את ה-7 הפרש, ולפני ששאלת "היכן נמצאת סודאן? THOR קובר שלשה שעושה 100-99 לסודאן עם 12 שניות לסיום.
• לברון עכשיו מחליט שהוא הולך בעצמו, אבל למה עם 8.0 שניות? למה לא לחכות עוד 5-6 שניות? הוא נכנס כמו טנק ועושה 100-101. אבל יש 8 שניות לסודאנים לקלוע סל ולנצח.
• אני לא שמתי לב איזה סודאני נכנס לסל. כל מה שאני יודע זה שעשו עליו פאול שלא נשרק, ו-USA ניצלה על נקודה.
• האמריקאים קופצים צוהלים כאילו זכו זה עתה בזהב.
• לברון קלע 23 לארה"ב. מריאל שייוק (Marial Shayok) – פעם כוכב אונ' וירג'יניה – קלע 6 מ-12 מהטריי ל-25 עבור דרום סודאן.
• **************
• אבל מה? אני מנבא שכש-USA תפגוש בדרום סודן בפאריז,

USA תנצח ב-25 נק'

Who is Khaman Maluach? Meet the 17-year-old Duke commit playing for.2 South Sudan at 2024 Paris Olympics

הקטע הזה במעורב מבוסס על המאמר של קייל אירוינג Who is Khaman Maluach? Meet the 17-year-old Duke commit playing for South Sudan at 2024 Paris Olympics (msn.com)

קודם: מי הוא Khaman Maluach?

Maluach הוא צעיר בן 17 מדרום סודן, 2.18 מ', בוגר NBA Academy Africa שהמסע שלו עד הלום הוא מסובך הרבה יותר כפי שתלמדו עוד מעט.

כיצד מבטאים את שמו?

לפי המאמר מבטאים את שמו His first name is pronounced "Kah-mahn" and his last name is pronounced "Mah-lu-watc

אבל לי יש תיאוריה שהוא נצר של השבט ה-12 האבוד שלנו שחלקו אבד במה שהיום היא איתיופיה, וחלקו אבד בדרום סודן ואת שמו צריך לבטא "מלוח" – כמו דג מלוח – אבל זה רק ביני לבין האשך ושימון. אז שכולם יבטאו את שמו כמו שב-NBA רוצים – מלואץ. אני אמשיך לבטאו 'מלוח' אלא אם כן עורך האתר עמיחי קטן יאסור זאת עלי.

אז מלוח נתגלה ע"י הסקאוטים של ה-NBA כשהיה בן 14 ואמו ברחה איתו ועם אחיו לאוגנדה כדי להימלט מהמלחמה בסודאן. מי שמסתכל עליו היום – ועוד מעט נראה אותו 'חי' נגד נבחרת ארה"ב – יתפלא שהוא אינו חומר גלם טרי לחלוטין. תתפלאו היום כשתראו אותו משחק.

הוא לא התחיל לשחק כדורסל עד גיל 13, וגם אז זאת הייתה למידה עצמית ממה שראה בטיווי כשכוכבו הוא ג'יאניס, ואותו הוא רצה להעתיק. הוא מזכיר גם את קווין דוראנט וג'ואל אמביד ככוכבי הכדורסל שלו. ישנה לו תנועה חלקה עם עבודת רגליים טבעית. בינתיים ההגנה היא ה-MOST POLISHED SKILL שלו כשישנה לו גישה בריאה של 'מגן טבעת'. הוא לא חושש מלקבל את הכדור והוא מסתדר איתו באופן טבעי שהפתיע את כל הסקאוטים. מה שמפתיע ביותר היא יכולת המסירה שלו, ונכונותו לקלוע לסל מקרוב ומחצי מרחק.

בגיל 17 הוא בוגר האקדמיה של ה-NBA שעזרה ליצור שחקנים כג'אש גידי, בנדיקט מאטורין ודייסון דניאלס.

מלוח עשה את נבחרת סודן הדרומית בגיל 16 ובכך הוא הופך לשחקן השלישי בצעירותו להשתתף בטורניר.

הוא הפך לשחקן '5 כוכבים' וכל האוניברסיטאות הגדולות הציעו לו מילגת לימודים עם יכולת להרוויח משכורת ולהשתמש בשמו לקידום מכירות. הוא העדיף את אונ' דוק על קנטקי, קנזס, UCLA, ופלורידה. הסיבה: "שמעתי שב'דוק' מאפשרים לך ללמוד ולהתקדם אקדמאית ולא רק לשחק כדורסל. אני מתעניין מאד בבינה מלאכותית והובטח לי שב'דוק' אוכל להתמחות בנושא", הוא אומר.

3. קטע מההסטוריה: דוויין ווייד על ה-REVERSE PSYCHOLOGY של שקיל אוניל

Heat legend Dwyane Wade reveals Shaq's 'reverse psychology' on him in 2006 NBA Finals

Jedd PagaduanJul 20, 2024 = הנושא מבוסס על מאמרו של ג'ד פגדואן

מיאמי היט של 2006 הייתה אחת הקבוצות הצעירות ביותר בתולדות ה-NBA לזכות באליפות ה-NBA. האליפות הושגה הרבה בגלל השחקן הטוב ביותר בהסטוריה של הקבוצה דוויין ווייד, ויסלח לי לברון ג'יימס.

אבל דוויין הצעיר לא יכול היה לעשות זאת ללא העזרה של שחקן וותיק בשם שקיל אוניל.

לאחרונה דוויין ווייד דיבר על המוטיבציה ששקיל ניסה – והצליח – 'להשתיל' במוחו של דוויין. "זה הכל היה REVERSE PSYCHOLOGY" אומר דוויין בתכנית "7PM עם כרמלו".

"שאק…He put a little fire under me". הוא אמר לי, 'היי, יו, אתה צעיר מדי לעשות זאת אם כי זאת ההזדמנות שלך לנסות כי אולי לא תבוא לך הזדמנות נוספת. לי יש 3 טבעות. לך יש 0, כמו ב-א-פ-ס. אז קח את הסידרה הזאת כאילו זאת ההזדמנות היחידה שלך. להרבה שחקנים לא הייתה אפילו הזדמנות אחת. אז למרות שאני לא כל כך מאמין שאתה בגיל 26 יכול לעשות זאת, אז לפחות תהנה מהסידרה הזאת ותזכור אותה לכל החיים כהזדמנות שהייתה לך, ופיספסת אותה".

"זה הבעיר אותי" אומר דוויין ווייד שנים אח"כ. אמרתי לעצמי "כיצד הוא מקטין את הסיכויים שלנו? אני עוד אראה לו!"

כמובן שדוויין ווייד היה כוכב הקבוצה הגדול שניצח את אליפות 2006 למרות – ואולי בגלל – ה-REVERSE PSYCHOLOGY של שאק.

כמובן דווין ווייד זכה בעוד שתי אליפויות ב-2012 ו-2013, בלי שקיל או'ניל, אבל עם לברון ג'יימס..

4. סטיב בלמר על מצב הקבוצה ללא פול ג'ורג'

Clippers owner Steve Ballmer on whether team can contend for an NBA title next season pic.twitter.com/9GO2OkAHpi

— Mark Medina (@MarkG_Medina) July 19, 2024

5. השחקן המשתכר ביותר העונה בכל קבוצה לפי פיידאווייוורלד

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Atlanta Hawks – Trae Young – $43,031,940

Trae Young has emerged as the franchise player for the Atlanta Hawks since being drafted fifth overall in 2018. Young's offensive prowess is undeniable, with averages of 25.7 points and 10.8 assists per game in 2023-24. Even if the Hawks struggled on the court, Young didn't on an individual level. 

Despite his relatively small stature at 6'1", Young's playmaking and scoring abilities have made him a defensive nightmare for opponents which is why he is on a max deal. Whether the Hawks decide to trade Young or not, the point guard will be commanding major dollars for the foreseeable future. 

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Boston Celtics – Jaylen Brown – $49,205,800

Jaylen Brown has steadily developed into one of the most versatile two-way players in the NBA and he had an incredible season in 2023-24. His journey from being the No. 3 pick in the 2016 draft to becoming the highest-paid player on the Celtics is a testament to his hard work and dedication. Signing the most lucrative contract in NBA history, winning an NBA title, and capturing the Finals MVP in one season is incredible. 

His partnership with Jayson Tatum forms one of the league's most dynamic duos, both offensively and defensively. Brown's leadership on and off the court has also been instrumental, as he advocates for social justice and community engagement so he is clearly one of the faces of the NBA right now.

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Brooklyn Nets – Ben Simmons – $40,338,144

Ben Simmons, despite facing criticism and challenges, remains the highest-paid player for the Brooklyn Nets. The Nets might be stuck with Simmons' contract because he could be untradable so the best way forward is to pray he can recover what made him the former No. 1 overall pick.

While his offensive game, particularly his shooting, has been scrutinized, Simmons' defensive acumen and court vision remain elite if he can find a way to stay healthy. There are major doubts about Simmons returning to an All-NBA level which is truly a shame because his focus seems to be outside of basketball. 

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Charlotte Hornets – LaMelo Ball – $35,147,000

LaMelo Ball is the cornerstone of the Charlotte Hornets franchise despite the presence of youngster Brandon Miller. Averaging 23.9 points, 5.1 rebounds, and 8.0 assists per game, Ball's impact is felt across all facets of the game. His flashy passes and confident shooting have made him a fan favorite and a rising star in the league.

Ball's influence extends beyond his on-court performances. His charismatic personality and marketability have revitalized the Hornets' brand, drawing increased attention to the team which is why he is on a max contract for the foreseeable future for a rebuilding franchise. 

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Chicago Bulls – Zach LaVine – $43,031,940

Zach LaVine has become synonymous with the Chicago Bulls' resurgence. Since joining the Bulls in 2017, LaVine has evolved into one of the league's premier scorers despite having lower averages last year (19.5 points per game on 34.9% from three). Hopefully, he can return to his standard level of offensive prowess. 

LaVine's performance earned him back-to-back All-Star selections in 2021 and 2022, solidifying his status as one of the NBA's elite guards but has not hit those heights since. It is no wonder why the Bulls are looking to move on from LaVine this summer in an effort to rebuild. 

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Cleveland Cavaliers – Darius Garland – $36,725,670

Darius Garland's rise to prominence with the Cleveland Cavaliers has been swift and impressive. Drafted No. 5 overall in 2019, Garland has developed into a dynamic point guard, averaging 18.0 points and 6.5 assists per game in 2023-24. His quickness, ball-handling, and shooting ability have made him a crucial part of the Cavaliers' offense.

Garland's breakout 2021-22 season, where he was named an All-Star, marked him as one of the league's rising talents and he is somehow making more than Donovan Mitchell next year. Garland's chemistry with Mitchell has turned the Cavaliers into a formidable offensive team as the team wants to make the Eastern Conference Finals next year at least.

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Dallas Mavericks – Luka Doncic – $43,031,940

Luka Doncic has taken the NBA by storm since being drafted third overall in 2018. His combination of size, skill, and basketball IQ has made him one of the league's most formidable players. Averaging 33.9 points, 9.2 rebounds, and 9.8 assists per game last year, Luka made his first Finals appearance and there could be more to come.

Doncic’s leadership and competitive spirit have been instrumental in the Mavericks' success. His ability to control the tempo of the game and make plays for his teammates makes him a unique talent and considering he is making less than some other players in the league, the Slovenian might be somewhat underpaid considering how dominant he is.

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Denver Nuggets – Nikola Jokic – $51,415,938

Nikola Jokic, the three-time MVP, continues to redefine what it means to be a center in the modern NBA. Averaging 26.4 points, 12.4 rebounds, and 9.0 assists per game last year, Jokic's ability to facilitate the offense from the center position is unmatched. His vision and passing skills have drawn comparisons to some of the greatest playmakers in history.

The Nuggets will have no problem shelling out over $50 million to the most impactful player in the league although they will need to revamp their roster after losing Kentavious Caldwell-Pope. Denver has not done enough to shore up their depth since their 2023 championship run and that has harmed Jokic’s ability to lead them to the Finals again.

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Detroit Pistons – Tobias Harris – $25,365,854

Tobias Harris brings a wealth of experience and scoring ability to the Detroit Pistons. Acquired in free agency following a rocky stint in Philadelphia, Harris hopes to be the player that makes the Pistons somewhat relevant again. Averaging 17.2 points and 6.5 rebounds per game last year, Harris' versatility allows him to play both forward positions effectively.

Harris' veteran presence is crucial for the young Pistons roster. His leadership and professionalism set a standard for the team's younger players. Detroit's front office views Harris as an integral part of their rebuilding process, aiming to develop their young talent around his consistent and dependable play.

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Golden State Warriors – Stephen Curry – $55,761,217

Stephen Curry, the face of the Golden State Warriors dynasty, continues to be one of the most influential players in the NBA and he tops the chart for the highest-paid player. Even as he approaches 37 years old, Curry is still undeniably great and arguably still the most impactful point guard in the world.

Curry's leadership and competitive spirit have been instrumental in the Warriors' success, leading them to multiple championships and establishing a culture of excellence. As the highest-paid player on the team and in the NBA, Curry's contract reflects his value not just as a player, but as the heart and soul of the franchise that needs him following Klay Thompson’s departure.

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Houston Rockets – Fred VanVleet – $42,846,615

Fred VanVleet brings championship experience and a winning mentality to the Houston Rockets. Since going undrafted in 2016, VanVleet has carved out a successful NBA career, highlighted by his crucial role in the Toronto Raptors' 2019 championship run. The Rockets are hoping he can achieve this with them.

Averaging 17.4 points and 8.1 assists per game, VanVleet's tenacity and leadership make him an invaluable addition to any team. The Rockets are looking to VanVleet to mentor their young core (led by Alperen Sengun and Jalen Green) and help guide the team back to playoff contention.

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Indiana Pacers – Tyrese Haliburton – $42,176,400

Tyrese Haliburton has quickly become the face of the Indiana Pacers since being acquired in a mid-season trade. Drafted No. 12 overall in 2020, Haliburton has shown immense potential as a versatile guard and is well deserving of a max contract in 2024-25. Averaging 20.1 points, 3.9 rebounds, and 10.9 assists per game last year, his ability to contribute across the board has made him a key player for the Pacers.

Haliburton's court vision and basketball IQ are beyond his years and his ability to create for his teammates and his defensive acumen make him a cornerstone for Indiana's efforts to become a title contender. As the highest-paid player on the Pacers, Haliburton's contract reflects the team's belief in his potential and leadership alongside star Pascal Siakam.

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Los Angeles Clippers – Kawhi Leonard – $52,368,085

Kawhi Leonard remains a vital piece of the Los Angeles Clippers' championship aspirations even if he struggles to stay healthy. Known for his defensive prowess and clutch performances, Leonard has consistently been one of the league's top players. Averaging 23.7 points, 6.1 rebounds, and 3.6 assists per game, Leonard's ability to impact both ends of the floor is well-documented and undeniable.

The only problem is that Leonard cannot stay on the court long enough. As the highest-paid player on the team, Leonard's contract underscores his importance to the Clippers' championship hopes because the franchise has already lost Paul George in free agency.

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Los Angeles Lakers – LeBron James – $48,728,845

LeBron James, one of the greatest basketball players of all time, continues to lead the Los Angeles Lakers both on and off the court after signing a two-year deal to see out his career in California. Averaging 25.7 points, 7.3 rebounds, and 8.3 assists per game at 39 years old last year, James' impact is undeniable.

His leadership, versatility, and basketball IQ make him an indispensable part of the Lakers' success and the team has made some interesting additions including rookies Dalton Knecht and Bronny James. The Lakers might need to trade for one more star to make this team a true contender, but even if they do, nobody on the team will earn more than The King in 2024-25.

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Memphis Grizzlies – Ja Morant – $36,725,670

Ja Morant has rapidly ascended to stardom with the Memphis Grizzlies since being drafted No. 2 overall in 2019 but has faced some off-court and health issues. Known for his explosive athleticism and playmaking ability, Morant averaged 25.1 points, 5.6 rebounds, and 8.1 assists per game for his career and is just getting started which is why he will make over $36 million in 2024-25.

His dynamic style of play and ability to perform in clutch moments have made him one of the most exciting players to watch in the NBA. Morant's leadership on the court has been instrumental in the Grizzlies' resurgence. Hopefully, the Grizzlies can start realizing their potential in the West with their superstar point guard leading the way.

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Miami Heat – Jimmy Butler – $48,798,677

The Miami Heat could be losing Jimmy Butler once he hits free agency but that doesn’t mean they won’t use him for the next two seasons. Butler is one of the best two-way players in the world although he has been getting hurt a little more than usual lately. The Heat organization needs Butler to perform at the highest level and if he does, they will be in great shape.

Miami will continue paying Butler a max contract, barring any shocking trade deals, and the player will do what he does best: work hard, compete, and try to lead the underdog Heat to the promised land. Whether Butler can accomplish that or not remains to be seen, but he will clear over $48 million next year.

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Milwaukee Bucks – Damian Lillard – $48,787,676

Damian Lillard, one of the most prolific scorers in the NBA, brings his talent and leadership to the Milwaukee Bucks in his second season with the franchise. Known for his deep shooting range and clutch performances, Lillard averaged 24.3 points, 4.4 rebounds, and 7.0 assists per game last year.

Lillard's addition to the Bucks aims to bolster their championship credentials. His partnership with Giannis Antetokounmpo creates a formidable duo capable of competing for titles. Milwaukee's front office is committed to maximizing the championship window with Lillard and Antetokounmpo, aiming to bring another title to the city at all costs.

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Minnesota Timberwolves – Karl-Anthony Towns – $49,205,800

Karl-Anthony Towns has been a cornerstone for the Minnesota Timberwolves since being drafted first overall in 2015. Armed with versatility and scoring ability, Towns averaged 21.8 points, 8.3 rebounds, and 3.0 assists per game on 41.6% from three. His ability to stretch the floor with his shooting and dominate in the paint makes him one of the most skilled big men in the league.

His partnership with Anthony Edwards forms a promising core for Minnesota's future. As the highest-paid player on the team, Towns' contract reflects his importance to the franchise's success and the team will continue to expect the big man to perform at the highest level possible with Edwards gunning for the spot as the alpha on the team.

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New Orleans Pelicans – Zion Williamson – $36,725,670

Zion Williamson's explosive athleticism and scoring ability have made him a focal point for the New Orleans Pelicans. Drafted first overall in 2019, Williamson averages 24.7 points and 6.5 rebounds per game, showcasing his dominance in the paint. His ability to finish at the rim and his physical presence make him a constant threat on the offensive end.

Williamson's impact on the Pelicans extends beyond his impressive stats. His potential to become one of the league's top players has generated excitement and optimism for the franchise's future. The problem is that the Pelicans are paying Williamson a huge sum of money despite his concerning injury history.

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New York Knicks – OG Anunoby – $36,637,932

The re-signed OG Anunoby returns as a key defensive asset and versatile forward for the New York Knicks. Known for his elite perimeter defense and scoring ability, Anunoby averaged 14.7 points, 4.2 rebounds, and 1.7 steals per game in 2023-24. His ability to guard multiple positions and contribute offensively makes him a vital part of the Knicks’ lineup.

Anunoby’s contract reflects the Knicks' confidence in his ability to be a cornerstone of their defense and a significant contributor on the offensive end. As the highest-paid player on the Knicks roster that has Jalen Brunson, Julius Randle, and Mikal Bridges, Anunoby is expected to play a major role in their pursuit of going all-in for a title in 2024-25.

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Oklahoma City Thunder – Shai Gilgeous-Alexander – $35,859,950

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander has emerged as a superstar for the Oklahoma City Thunder and one of the top five players in the world. His combination of scoring, playmaking, and defensive abilities has made him a standout player. Averaging 30.1 points, 5.5 rebounds, and 6.2 assists per game, Gilgeous-Alexander’s all-around game has been a driving force for the Thunder.

As a key piece in the team's process of preparing for a championship run, SGA’s role will be pivotal in guiding the Thunder next year after being one game away from the Western Conference Finals. His continued development and leadership are essential as the team aims to build a competitive roster and establish itself in the Western Conference and considering his salary, the superstar might be underpaid.

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Orlando Magic – Jonathan Isaac – $25,000,000

Jonathan Isaac's contract reflects his potential and defensive impact on the Orlando Magic. Known for his elite shot-blocking and versatile defensive skills, Isaac averaged 6.8 points, 4.5 rebounds, and 1.2 blocks per game last year. His presence in the paint and ability to guard multiple positions make him a key defensive asset for the Magic.

As the highest-paid player on the Magic, Isaac's contract underscores the team’s belief in his future contributions despite a shocking injury history. His defensive capabilities and potential for growth are crucial for the Magic as they continue to build their roster but there is no doubt eyebrows are raised for Orlando’s trust in the two-way forward.

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Philadelphia 76ers – Joel Embiid – $51,415,938

Joel Embiid is one of the premier centers in the NBA and the central figure for the Philadelphia 76ers alongside the newly arrived Paul George and budding Tyrese Maxey. With averages of 34.7 points, 11.0 rebounds, and 5.6 assists per game last year, Embiid’s dominant presence in the paint and scoring ability make him a force to be reckoned with. His defensive skills, including 1.7 blocks per game, also add significant value.

Embiid’s contract as the highest-paid player on the 76ers reflects his status as one of the league’s top players. The team relies heavily on him for both offensive production and defensive prowess and hopefully, he can stay healthy to give the Sixers a chance to win it all.

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Phoenix Suns – Kevin Durant – $51,179,020

Kevin Durant remains one of the elite players in the NBA, and his contract with the Phoenix Suns reflects his stature. Known for his scoring prowess, Durant averaged 27.1 points, 6.6 rebounds, and 5.0 assists per game. His ability to create shots and perform in clutch moments continues to make him one of the most valuable players in the league, even as he approaches 36 years old.

The Suns depend on his scoring and leadership to drive their success even if they have Devin Booker and Bradley Beal on the squad. Durant’s impact on the court will be crucial as the Suns aim to contend for an NBA title and solidify their position as one of the top teams in the Western Conference.

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Portland Trail Blazers – Deandre Ayton – $34,005,126

Deandre Ayton’s presence in the Portland Trail Blazers' lineup brings both scoring and rebounding abilities, despite the criticism he receives at times for his lack of aggression. Averaging 16.7 points and 11.1 rebounds per game, Ayton’s contributions in the paint and his efficient scoring make him a key player for the Blazers. His impact on both ends of the floor is significant, providing a strong presence in the post.

Ayton’s contract as the highest-paid player on the Blazers reflects his role in the team’s efforts to rebuild and compete. His ability to dominate in the paint and his scoring efficiency are crucial as Portland aims to develop a competitive roster with the Damian Lillard era over.

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Sacramento Kings – Domantas Sabonis – $40,500,000

Domantas Sabonis continues to be a central figure for the Sacramento Kings alongside De’Aaron Fox. Known for his exceptional passing and rebounding, Sabonis averaged 19.4 points, 13.7 rebounds, and 8.2 assists per game last year. His all-around game and ability to impact various facets of play make him a valuable asset for the Kings.

Sabonis’ contract reflects his importance to the team’s success. His versatility and playmaking ability are crucial as Sacramento looks to build a competitive roster and make a strong playoff push. Sabonis’ performance and leadership will be essential in driving the team’s ambitions and overall success in the Western Conference.

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San Antonio Spurs – Devin Vassell – $29,347,826

Devin Vassell's potential and defensive capabilities have made him a rising star for the San Antonio Spurs alongside budding superstar Victor Wembanyama who is still on a rookie contract. Since being drafted in 2020, Vassell has demonstrated his ability to contribute on both ends of the floor. Averaging 19.5 points and 4.1 assists per game, Vassell's versatility and defensive instincts are key assets for the Spurs.

His development has been a bright spot for a team in the midst of a rebuild. With his offensive prowess and potential for growth defensively, Vassell is expected to play a significant role in the Spurs' efforts to return to playoff contention and build a competitive team.

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Toronto Raptors – Immanuel Quickley – $32,500,000

Immanuel Quickley has made a significant impact since joining the Toronto Raptors. Known for his scoring ability and dynamic play, Quickley averaged 17.0 points and 4.9 assists per game with the Raptors last season. His energy and ability to create offense make him a valuable player for the Raptors. Quickley's improvement has been noticeable, as he continues to develop into a key contributor for the team.

Quickley's contract reflects his importance to the Raptors as they look to build a competitive team. His scoring and playmaking ability are crucial for Toronto's success, and the team is counting on him to be a major player in their efforts to return to the playoffs with Scottie Barnes the go-to star.

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Utah Jazz – John Collins – $26,580,000

John Collins brings energy and versatility to the Utah Jazz. Known for his athleticism and scoring ability, Collins averaged 15.1 points, 8.5 rebounds, and 0.9 blocks per game in 2023-24. His ability to contribute as a versatile forward and his work ethic has made him a valuable addition to the Jazz. Collins' impact on both ends of the floor is significant, providing the team with a solid presence in the frontcourt.

As the highest-paid player on the Jazz, Collins' contract reflects his role in the team's rebuilding efforts. The Jazz are looking to Collins to be a key piece in their development as they build towards future success or perhaps use him as a means to move salary in trades.

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Washington Wizards – Jordan Poole – $30,151,786

Jordan Poole, despite a difficult campaign in 2023-24, is hoping to return as a dynamic scorer for the Washington Wizards. Known for his ability to create offense and his shooting prowess, Poole averaged 17.4 points, 4.4 assists, and 2.7 rebounds per game on 32.6% from three last year in a difficult campaign.

Poole's contract as the highest-paid player on the Wizards underscores his importance to the team's plans. The Wizards are banking on Poole's offensive capabilities and potential for development as they look to rebuild and establish a competitive team and if the player doesn’t perform, he could be on the chopping block.