LeBron James and Joel Embiid stand out as the only Eastern Conference teammates featured in Forbes’ highest-paid NBA players list for the 2026 season. Since joining the Philadelphia 76ers this summer, James has brought new expectations along with his significant financial clout, while Embiid remains the team's cornerstone. Despite Embiid’s struggle to advance past the second playoff round in his career, the addition of James and Jaylen Brown has heightened the 76ers’ aspirations to contend for the Eastern Conference title.

James’s earnings this season have shifted dramatically, reflecting a sharp decrease in his on-court salary as he signed a veteran minimum deal worth under $8 million for two years. His gameplay salary of less than $3.9 million marks his lowest ever, contrasting sharply with the $52.6 million he made last season with the Lakers. Nonetheless, James continues to dominate financially off the court, with Forbes estimating $90 million in endorsements and business income, placing him as the fourth highest-paid player overall. Embiid ranks tenth, with projected earnings totaling $68 million, predominantly from a substantial $58 million salary.

Throughout his storied career, James has consistently ranked among the top earners, leading NBA off-court earnings since Forbes began tracking in 2011-12 until recently when Stephen Curry overtook him. Curry remains the highest earner this season, with combined earnings estimated at $203.6 million, but James’s $90 million off-court income is the highest ever recorded for him. With cumulative off-court earnings nearing $1 billion and a net worth of $1.4 billion, James is the first active NBA player to achieve billionaire status, joining an elite group of athletes who have reached this milestone while still competing.

The 76ers’ home opener highlighted their potential with a dramatic comeback victory against the Cleveland Cavaliers, where James and Embiid spurred a rally from a 29-point deficit. Fans' support was rekindled after initial boos, emphasizing the elevated excitement surrounding the team’s revamped roster. Coach Nick Nurse plans to manage Embiid and James’s playing time carefully to preserve their health for the playoffs, underscoring the team’s long-term ambitions. This season’s synergy between the veterans and rising stars like Brown signals Philadelphia’s renewed contention hopes.