The 2023 NBA draft class is poised to cash in on lucrative extensions, led by Victor Wembanyama of the San Antonio Spurs and Brandon Miller of the Charlotte Hornets. Analysts predict Wembanyama will sign a five-year, about $302 million deal, while Miller is projected for a five-year, approximately $200 million contract, though injury concerns and team needs could temper the max potential. The piece also outlines other first-round projections: Amen Thompson ($185M over 5 years), Ausar Thompson ($135M over 5), Anthony Black ($80M over 4), Cason Wallace ($108M over 4), Keyonte George ($152M over 4), Brandon Podziemski ($64M over 4), and Ben Sheppard ($30M over 3). Additionally, several late-first-round players are noted as borderline extensions. The article places these salary forecasts in the broader context of rising NBA earnings, highlighting Stephen Curry’s ongoing top-tier earnings, Luka Dončić’s recent contract moves, and LeBron James as the career earnings leader, illustrating the financial trajectory for current stars and 2023 draftees. Key takeaways emphasize how health, team needs, and cap dynamics influence max vs. near-max contracts for the 2023 class.
