How much do second-round NBA draft picks make?

Last Modified May 14, 2024 09:01 GMT
Image credits: Getty Images

The NBA Draft night is the most anticipated night for upcoming talent looking to play in the NBA. The night marks the beginning of a new chapter for players from all over the world. The draft is the occasion where dreams are realized and the future of players and teams is shaped.

Every year, the league's franchises meticulously evaluate and scout prospects from various US colleges and international leagues. They analyze their skills, potential, and fit within their respective teams. The draft order is determined by the previous season's regular season standings, with teams that performed poorly receiving higher picks as a means to rebuild and improve their rosters.

On draft night, young prospects wait for their names to be announced and hope to land in a team that truly recognizes their abilities. Whereas, the franchises will look to acquire the players who will be a key asset for the team in the future. As the picks unfold, fans eagerly follow along, discussing and analyzing each selection, envisioning how these young stars will contribute to their favorite teams.

Image credits: Getty Images

Second-round Draft Picks Salary

Unlike first-round selections, who typically receive guaranteed contracts, second-round picks do not have the same assurance of securing a spot on an NBA roster.

Historically, players drafted in the second round have not been guaranteed contracts, which means they must compete fiercely during the NBA Summer League and training camp to earn a coveted roster spot. However, in recent seasons, there has been a noticeable trend of teams offering guaranteed contracts to second-round picks, albeit at a lower salary scale compared to first-round selections.

As a reference point, Jalen Pickett, the second pick in the second round of the 2023 NBA Draft, signed a four-year $8.2 million contract with the Denver Nuggets, with $5.8 million guaranteed. On the other hand, Chris Livingston, the last pick in the second round, secured a four-year $7.6 million deal with the Milwaukee Bucks, including $3 million guaranteed. Second-round rookies who sign four-year deals can generally expect their salaries to fall within this range.

For those second-round picks who manage to make an NBA roster, they are entitled to receive the league's minimum salary, which is determined by the number of years of NBA experience they have accumulated. Additionally, some second-round picks may opt for two-way contracts, which allow them to split their time between the NBA team and its G League affiliate.

Two-way contracts provide second-round picks with a unique opportunity to earn additional income while continuing to develop their skills in the G League.

FAQ's on How much do second-round NBA draft picks make?

A. There are two rounds in an NBA Draft, with each round consisting of 30 picks. The first 14 picks are determined through a lottery system. 

A. The minimum age to enroll in an NBA Draft is 19.

A. The 2024 NBA Draft will be held on two different days, the first round will be on June 26, 2024, at Barclays Center in Brooklyn and the second round on June 27, 2024, at ESPN’s Seaport District Studios, Manhattan.

A. The NBA Draft has been limited to two rounds only to ensure a maximum of two available picks to each team. More importantly, limiting the number of picks and number of rounds allows undrafted players with an opportunity to sign with teams.

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