Cap exceptions in the NBA, such as the mid-level exception and trade exceptions, provide teams with flexibility to sign or acquire players despite being over the salary cap. Here are some examples of teams effectively utilizing cap exceptions:
Miami Heat signing Jimmy Butler (2019)
The Miami Heat used their cap space to sign Jimmy Butler in free agency but also utilized a sign-and-trade transaction with the Philadelphia 76ers. This allowed the Heat to stay below the salary cap while still acquiring Butler and sending out matching salaries. It was a creative use of cap exceptions to acquire a star player and improve their roster.
Golden State Warriors acquiring Andre Iguodala (2013)
The Golden State Warriors used a trade exception to acquire Andre Iguodala from the Denver Nuggets. By utilizing this exception, the Warriors were able to absorb Iguodala’s salary without having to send out matching salaries. This move helped the Warriors establish a championship-winning core and transform into a perennial contender.
Toronto Raptors acquiring Marc Gasol (2019)
The Toronto Raptors utilized a trade exception to acquire Marc Gasol from the Memphis Grizzlies during the 2018-2019 season. This allowed the Raptors to add a skilled and experienced big man without needing to match salaries. Gasol played a crucial role in the Raptors’ championship run and provided a significant boost to their roster.
Los Angeles Lakers signing Montrezl Harrell (2020)
The Los Angeles Lakers utilized the mid-level exception to sign Montrezl Harrell in free agency. This allowed them to add a productive and energetic player despite being over the salary cap. Harrell provided valuable scoring and rebounding off the bench for the Lakers during their championship-winning season.
San Antonio Spurs signing LaMarcus Aldridge (2015)
The San Antonio Spurs used the available cap space to sign LaMarcus Aldridge in free agency. This move helped the Spurs maintain their competitiveness by adding a highly skilled big man to their roster without needing to make significant roster adjustments.
Smart utilization of cap exceptions enables teams to maximize their roster flexibility, acquire talent, and maintain salary cap flexibility. It allows teams to navigate the constraints of the salary cap system while building competitive rosters. The examples mentioned above demonstrate how teams have strategically utilized cap exceptions to bolster their squads and make significant improvements to their on-court performance.