Michael Jordan is considered by many fans to be the greatest player in NBA history, but when it comes to making money, he played in an era where salaries were nowhere near what LeBron James earns with the Los Angeles Lakers.
According to the specialized site Spotrac, Jordan’s first contract as an NBA rookie with the Chicago Bulls was a seven-year deal worth $6.3 million. And LeBron? “The King” signed his first rookie contract with the Cleveland Cavaliers for four years and more than $18.7 million.
The differences start to become significant. Understanding that NBA salary caps have increased over time, the gap between LeBron James’ first contract extension and Michael Jordan’s was more than $34.6 million. While MJ signed an eight-year, $25.7 million deal with the Bulls, LeBron extended his contract with the Cavaliers for four years and over $60.3 million.
Jordan’s character, talent, and dominance in the NBA Finals led to millions pouring into his career. His first massive contract with the Chicago Bulls came at age 33, during the 1996-97 season. Before winning his fifth championship, he earned over $30.1 million, but even that figure is far from what LeBron makes with the Los Angeles Lakers.
Michael Jordan’s Salary vs. LeBron James’ Earnings
LeBron James vs. Michael Jordan: Salary Comparison (Photo: AI-generated image by Grok)
The highest salary Michael Jordan ever earned came during the 1997-98 season. MJ made just over $33.1 million with the Chicago Bulls before securing his sixth and final NBA title. However, this amount is $15.6 million less than what LeBron James currently earns with the Los Angeles Lakers, as “The King” is set to make over $48.7 million for the 2024-25 season.
LeBron James Could Earn His Highest NBA Salary Yet
As a sign of confidence from the Los Angeles Lakers, who recognize that LeBron continues to perform at a superstar level at 40 years old, averaging 25 points, 8.5 assists, and 8.2 rebounds per game in the 2024-25 season, he has the option to exercise a player option worth over $52.6 million for the 2025-26 season with the California-based franchise.
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