The NBA All-Contract Team is a fascinating concept, showcasing the best possible roster without exceeding the luxury tax. This year's edition features a mix of established stars and under-the-radar finds, all on affordable contracts. Let's dive into the 15-player roster and explore what makes each player a valuable addition to this team.
Point Guards
Jason Brunson ($34.9 million)
What makes Brunson stand out is his exceptional value. He's become one of the league's best players while remaining one of its best bargains. His new extension is still under market value, allowing New York to build a deep roster around him. Brunson's production speaks for itself, averaging 26.7 points and 6.2 assists this season, and he's a clutch player to boot.
Jaden Pritchard ($7.2 million)
Pritchard has had a career-best season in Boston, averaging 17.1 points, 4.1 rebounds, and 5.4 assists. His salary is a steal, representing less than 5% of the cap, and he's signed for another two seasons. Pritchard's role has expanded with the departure of Jrue Holiday and Jayson Tatum's absence.
Ty Rollins ($4 million)
Rollins has come into his own with Milwaukee, putting up career highs in points, rebounds, assists, and steals. He's a full-time starter and a great bargain, with a contract worth $4 million this year and next, plus a player option for 2027-28.
Shooting Guards
Jaden Alexander-Walker ($15.1 million)
Alexander-Walker has shown he can shoot, defend, and make plays. He's putting up career highs in points, rebounds, assists, and steals, and his four-year, $62 million deal is a bargain over its final three years.
A.J. Merrill ($8.4 million)
Merrill has been a great find for Cleveland, shooting 45.8% from 3 and providing credible defense. His four-year, $36 million deal will age nicely, giving Cleveland a valuable third guard.
Ty Spencer ($2.5 million)
Spencer has become a reliable starter for the Grizzlies, averaging 11.4 points and 5.5 assists. His deal is less than 2% of this year's salary cap and two more seasons, with a team option to keep him long-term.
Small Forwards
Deni Avdija ($14.4 million)
Avdija is the single-best value in the league, showcasing his ability to dribble, pass, and shoot. He's making less than $40 million over the next three years, which is a steal for a 6-foot-8 wing.
Alex Dosunmu ($7.5 million)
Dosunmu has turned into a quality 3-point shooter in Minnesota, hitting over 44% of them. He can also contribute defensively and with the ball, making him a valuable addition.
Jayson Champagnie ($3 million)
Champagnie is a perfect 3-and-D wing, shooting over 38% from 3 and establishing himself as a full-time starter. His current salary is a bargain, with a team option for the same amount this summer.
Power Forwards
Jaden Johnson ($30 million)
Johnson rewarded the Hawks' faith in him with an impressive season, becoming an All-Star. He's Atlanta's primary creator, putting up career highs while not sacrificing efficiency. The Hawks signaled their intention to build around him by trading away Trae Young.
Josh Hart ($19.4 million)
Hart is a fan favorite in New York, a solid defender, and a versatile player. He's under contract for less than 15% of the salary cap for this year and next, plus a team option for 2027-28.
Christian Marshall ($9 million)
Marshall is a strong rotation player for Dallas, providing 3-point shooting and 2-point shooting, as well as the ability to guard either forward position. His contract keeps him part of the Mavericks' playoff hopes.
Centers
Mikal Robinson ($12.9 million)
Robinson's ability to rebound has become a weapon for the Knicks. He's an elite offensive rebounder and rim protector, justifying his salary. His availability will be a key factor in the team's success.
Jalen Stewart ($15 million)
Stewart has established himself as one of the league's top interior defenders. His partnership with Jalen Duren has created one of the league's top defensive units in Detroit. Stewart's contract allows him to be a luxury as a high-level backup or a starter.
Walker Queta ($2.3 million)
Queta has had an impressive season in Boston, putting up career highs in virtually every category. He's a legitimate 7-footer, and the Celtics are significantly better when he's on the court. His contract is a steal, and he's a critical piece of Boston's success.
Depth Chart
The All-Contract Team has 10 players with an estimated plus-minus better than plus-1 point per 100 possessions, more than any actual NBA roster. It also has strong shooting, with four players making over 40% of their 3-pointers. However, two roster weaknesses are perimeter defense and size.
Despite these concerns, the All-Contract Team would be one of the NBA's best squads if it slotted into the league. It would project for a net rating of about plus-8 points per 100 possessions, in the same range as the Pistons and Celtics. This team would be a bona fide contender, but not the title favorite.
