Kenneth Faried is a high-energy power forward whose NBA journey reflects both athletic brilliance and complex business decisions. Understanding his career earnings and commitments helps fans and analysts appreciate the financial side of his professional path.
Below is a detailed overview of Kenneth Faried contract terms, key milestones, and financial components presented in a structured format for quick reference.
| Season | Team | Salary (USD) | Contract Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2011–12 | Denver Nuggets (Rookie) | $4,026,708 | Rookie Scale |
| 2012–13 | Denver Nuggets | $4,360,064 | Rookie Extension |
| 2013–14 | Denver Nuggets | $4,697,428 | Team Option |
| 2014–15 | Denver Nuggets | $2,602,380 | Early Bird Free Agent |
| 2015–16 | Brooklyn Nets | $12,926,400 | 4-Year Max Deal |
| 2016–17 | Brooklyn Nets | $13,852,344 | 4-Year Max Deal |
| 2017–18 | Brooklyn Nets / Houston Rockets / Cleveland Cavaliers / Washington Wizards | Various veteran-minimum deals | Short-Term Signings |
| 2018–19 | CSKA Moscow | Estimated $6–8 million | Overseas Contract |
| 2021–22 | Greensboro Swarm (G League) | G League Standard | Development League Deal |
Early NBA Years and Rookie Contract Details
2011 Draft and Initial Earnings
Kenneth Faried declared for the 2011 NBA Draft after three seasons at Morehead State and was selected with the 22nd overall pick by the Denver Nuggets. His rookie contract followed the standard scale for that pick, providing predictable earnings over two guaranteed years with team options for subsequent seasons. This structure allowed the Nuggets to maintain cost control while rewarding on-court impact.
Team Options and Early Extensions
Before the 2013–14 season, Denver exercised its team option on Faried, signaling confidence in his continued development as a rebounder and defensive stopper. The contract extension preserved his bargain-bin salary relative to his production, making him an efficient contributor during the mid-2010s amid a competitive Western Conference landscape.
Breakout Period and Market Value Rise
Transition to a Starting Role
During the 2013–14 campaign, Faried averaged career highs in points, rebounds, and blocks per game, establishing himself as one of the league’s most relentless offensive rebounders. His improved shooting and hustle plays expanded his usage, laying the groundwork for his lucrative free-agency window a year later.
2015 Free Agency and Brooklyn Nets Deal
In the 2015 offseason, Faried signed a four-year, $51 million maximum contract with the Brooklyn Nets, a reflection of his peak value and positional scarcity. The deal provided long-term stability and placed him alongside rising stars, though injuries and lineup shifts would later challenge his consistency in New York.
Later Career Moves and International Exposure
Late-Night Shuffles and Short-Term Deals
After his Nets tenure, Faried bounced between the Houston Rockets, Cleveland Cavaliers, and Washington Wizards in search of steady minutes. These veteran-minimum agreements allowed him to remain active in the league while adapting to different systems and coaching philosophies.
Overseas Adventure with CSKA Moscow
In 2018, Faried joined CSKA Moscow of the VTB United League, commanding a substantial overseas salary that significantly exceeded his previous NBA earnings. The move extended his playing years, showcased his adaptability, and highlighted his enduring appeal as a high-efficiency rebounder on a global stage.
Key Takeaways and Recommendations
- Understand how rookie scale contracts evolve into maximum deals based on performance and timing.
- Recognize the trade-offs between veteran-minimum deals and long-term security.
- Consider the value of international opportunities in extending careers and earnings.
- Track how role changes and team systems can impact salary and on-court influence.
FAQ
Reader questions
How much did Kenneth Faried earn in his rookie season?
Kenneth Faried earned $4,026,708 in his 2011–12 rookie season with the Denver Nuggets on a standard rookie scale contract.
What was the value of Kenneth Faried's contract with the Brooklyn Nets?
Faried signed a four-year, $51 million maximum contract with the Brooklyn Nets in 2015, reflecting his peak market value at the time.
Did Kenneth Faried take pay cuts later in his career?
Yes, after his Nets deal, Faried accepted veteran-minimum contracts with the Rockets, Cavaliers, and Wizards, prioritizing playing time over salary. His one-season stint with CSKA Moscow in 2018–19 commanded a salary in the range of $6–8 million, substantially higher than his final NBA deals.