Shai Gilgeous-Alexander Could Be NBA’s First $80M Man.
The 2025 NBA Playoffs are delivering intense matchups, none more compelling than the Western Conference Semifinals between the Oklahoma City Thunder and the Denver Nuggets. This rare face-off features the two top contenders for the regular-season MVP: Nikola Jokic and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander. While Jokic signed a major extension years ago, Gilgeous-Alexander is now poised to make NBA history with a potential record-breaking deal.
According to NBA insider Marc Stein, Gilgeous-Alexander is eligible for a supermax extension this offseason worth nearly $300 million. Notably, the deal would include a salary exceeding $80 million per season—an NBA first.
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If Shai signs the four-year deal this summer, he’ll lock in that unprecedented payday. But if he waits until the 2026 offseason, the supermax would expand to five years and surpass the $300 million mark. Either way, the contract is expected to include at least one—and possibly multiple—seasons where he earns north of $80 million annually.
Despite the looming decision, Thunder fans can breathe easy. Gilgeous-Alexander recently reaffirmed his commitment to the franchise, stating:
“I love Oklahoma City and I can’t see a world where I’m not in Oklahoma City.”
Drafted by the Los Angeles Clippers in 2018, Gilgeous-Alexander was traded to the Thunder a year later as part of the blockbuster Paul George deal. In just a few seasons, SGA has already achieved what George couldn’t—he’s led the Thunder to two playoff series wins (including one in 2024 and another this year). Now, he’s vying to take them even further.
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Ironically, former Thunder star Russell Westbrook—whom Shai could soon surpass in career earnings—is now a member of the opposing Nuggets. Westbrook, still beloved in Oklahoma City, has earned around $349 million in his career. That’s approximately what Gilgeous-Alexander could earn from just one future contract.
Final Thoughts
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s rise is a testament to his talent, poise, and relentless work ethic. From a trade asset to a franchise cornerstone, he’s elevated the Thunder to contender status and captured the hearts of fans across the league. As he stands on the brink of an $80 million salary milestone, Shai isn’t just making history—he’s redefining it. With his leadership, Oklahoma City’s future is brighter than ever, both on and off the court.
