Gary Payton and Russell Westbrook
Two of the most decorated point guards in league history, Gary Payton and Russell Westbrook earned vastly different salaries over their careers. While Payton was regarded as one of the league’s best defenders and playmaker, his yearly salary capped at $12.9 million during the ’01-’02 seasons. In total, Payton earned $104 million throughout his career.
Westbrook passed that mark in just the last few seasons alone. In ’23, Westbrook opted into the final year of his deal worth $47 million. The former MVP and all-time leader in triple doubles has earned over $335 million in 15 seasons.
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