As the NBA trade deadline approaches on February 5, 2026, the spotlight is on some of the most egregious contracts in the league. With teams scrambling to improve their rosters, the burden of these hefty deals could significantly impact their strategies. Here’s a closer look at the five worst contracts currently plaguing the NBA.
Leading the pack is Joel Embiid of the Philadelphia 76ers. Despite being an elite player when healthy, his injury woes have rendered him a part-time player. Embiid’s staggering $176 million contract over the next four years raises eyebrows, especially since he’s only played in 17 of 34 games this season. The 76ers may find it nearly impossible to move this contract without a substantial buyout, leaving them in a precarious situation.
Next up is Paul George, another high-profile player who has struggled to stay on the court. The Clippers’ star has only participated in 18 games this season, averaging a mere 15.5 points. With a $51 million salary this year and an upcoming player option of $57 million, George’s contract is a financial albatross that the Clippers may regret for years to come.
Jeremy Grant of the Portland Trail Blazers also makes the list, earning $32 million this season despite never being named an All-Star in his 12-year career. Averaging 20 points per game, Grant is still shooting only 43% from the field. His five-year, $160 million deal raises questions about the wisdom of such an investment in a player who has yet to prove himself on the biggest stage.
The Denver Nuggets are not immune to bad contracts either. Zeke Nnaji, a player averaging just three points per game, is on the books for $8.1 million this season. Despite the Nuggets’ injury crisis, Nnaji has been unable to seize the opportunity, leading to speculation about his future with the team. His negative plus-minus rating is a glaring red flag.
Finally, we have Patrick Williams of the Chicago Bulls, who, after six seasons, is still struggling to make an impact. Making $18 million annually while averaging only 6.5 points is a glaring miscalculation by the Bulls’ front office. With four years left on his deal, this contract looms large as a hindrance to the team’s future plans.
As the trade deadline looms, these contracts could dictate the direction of their respective teams. Will teams find a way to offload these burdensome deals, or will they remain shackled by poor financial decisions? Only time will tell, but for now, these contracts are a glaring reminder of the high stakes in the NBA.