This Monday was signed the largest contract in the history of American sport: 10 years, and 503 (!) Million dollars for the Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes. At 24, he is already MVP and MVP of the Superbowl – in short, he is a sure bet for his franchise. And in the NBA then, who are the players on which the teams could bet on the very long term, without taking too many risks? Answer here.
Giannis Antetokounmpo – Milwaukee Bucks
With a 10-year contract, there may be the fear that the past few seasons are too many. We must therefore find players old enough to have proven their worth, but young enough not to become handicaps in their thirties. Giannis Antetokounmpo falls perfectly in between. At 25, he will probably win his second MVP title, and potentially his first NBA title. He is not necessarily the best player in the world today, but by the end of this imaginary contract, he will surely be, by far.
Zion Williamson – New Orleans Pelicans
In 19 games, Zion Williamson everyone agreed: he is made to dominate in the NBA. Some thought it too heavy, others too one-dimensional, and yet the Pelican rookie flew over the debates without forcing too much. In addition to making the Pelicans much better on the floor, he also made this franchise an international brand. New Orleans lost Anthony Davis and Chris Paul, a 10-year contract would be a good solution to secure Zion.
Jayson Tatum – Boston Celtics
Jayson Tatum is 22 years old, and he is already evolving to a confirmed All-Star level. A 10-year contract would therefore take him until his 32 spring, the normal age of decline for top athletes. Until then, Tatum has plenty of time to add the last string to his bow, playmaking. If he clicks Kevin Durant, he will undoubtedly become one of the best players in the world.
Trae Young – Atlanta Hawks
Many today consider Allen Iverson to be the best “little one” in history. In 10 years, the song could be very different. For his second season in the NBA, Trae Young is already a titular All-Star, one of the best leaders in the league, and his room for improvement is still immense. A better selection of shots, less ball loss, and above all a defensive improvement would make him a unique talent. An investment over time would give the Hawks the assurance of having a star in town for a long time, and ultimately to find the playoffs.
Luka Doncic – Dallas Mavericks
Doncic wound has all of a generational talent. The proof, here is the list of players 21 years old or less to display at least 28 points, 9 rebounds, and 8 assists in a season: Luka Doncic. Even with no age restrictions, only Oscar Robertson can boast of having done so well. Luka is only 21 years old, but he is already a finished product, his premium is likely to last at least 10 years, so the decision would be most logical for Dallas.
Ja Morant – Memphis Grizzlies
Do you know the only pointers / backers in history to have turned at least 17 points and 49% success less than 21 years? There is Ja Morant, Magic Johnson, et Michael Jordan… It classifies the player. Above all, he shares a common point with these legends: the ability to win his team. The good made by Memphis between last year and this season is historic, and Morant is not for nothing.
Read also: The ranking of the 15 best young people in history
A franchise will never take the risk of signing a superstar for 10 years … But on paper in any case, it is a wise idea for certain talents.
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