Anthony Davis Current Contract Overview
Anthony Davis is under contract with the Los Angeles Lakers on a multi-year deal that includes a player option for the final year. His current salary for the most recent season is approximately $40.6 million, making him one of the highest-paid players in the NBA. The deal was structured to provide flexibility for both Davis and the Lakers, with a mix of guaranteed money and team options. The contract reflects his status as a premier big man and a cornerstone of the Lakers' championship aspirations. For more details on NBA salary structures, you can refer to the official NBA salary cap rules here.
The total guaranteed value of the current contract is substantial, with the Lakers committing significant cap space to retain his services. Davis's contract includes standard NBA incentives related to All-NBA selections and All-Defensive honors, which can increase his overall earnings. The structure is designed to manage the luxury tax while keeping a core group of players together. This approach allows the Lakers to maintain competitiveness in the Western Conference. Further information on luxury tax implications can be found on the Forbes NBA salary page here.
Contract History and Extension Details
Before joining the Lakers, Anthony Davis signed a five-year max contract extension with the New Orleans Pelicans in 2015. That deal was worth approximately $145.6 million and included a player option for the final year. The extension was a landmark agreement that reflected his immediate impact and potential as a franchise player. Davis later requested a trade in 2019, leading to his move to Los Angeles. The Pelicans received a package centered around Lonzo Ball, Brandon Ingram, and Josh Hart, along with multiple first-round picks. The trade details were widely reported by ESPN here.
The Lakers signed Davis to a new four-year extension in 2020, adding significant guaranteed money and a player option for the fourth year. This extension was structured to coincide with the Lakers' championship window and to retain his services long-term. The deal includes annual raises based on the NBA's collective bargaining agreement. The total value of the extension is estimated at over $186 million, making it one of the largest in NBA history. The SEC filing related to the Lakers' ownership structure and salary commitments can be reviewed on the SEC website here.
Salary Cap Impact and Team Strategy
Anthony Davis's contract has a significant impact on the Lakers' salary cap and roster flexibility. His salary consumes a large portion of the team's cap space, limiting their ability to add other high-cost free agents. The Lakers must carefully manage their remaining cap exceptions to build a competitive supporting cast around him. The team's front office has focused on using mid-level exceptions and minimum contracts to fill roster spots. This strategy aims to balance cost control with the need for depth and youth. The NBA's official salary cap and luxury tax rules are detailed on the league's website here.
The structure of Davis's deal also includes a no-trade clause, giving him control