NBA 2025 Free Agency: Team-by-Team Guide to Cap Space, Targets & Potential Moves

With the NBA Draft concluded, teams are now turning their attention to the free agency and trade market. This analysis breaks down each of the 30 teams into tiers, examining their available cap space, key free agents, ideal fits, and potential moves for the upcoming summer.

Key: ETO = Early Termination Option | P = Player Option | R = Restricted | T = Team Option

Jump to a tier:

• Cap space teams
• Cap room, with a cost
• The $14.1M exception club
• Watching their own FAs
• First-apron teams
• Second-apron teams

Tier 1: Cap Space Teams

Currently, the Brooklyn Nets are projected to have over $20 million in cap space this offseason. This scarcity of teams with significant spending power is due to the increase in rookie and veteran extensions signed since last July.

Teams must spend at least 90% of the $154.6 million salary cap by the first day of the regular season. For a team like Brooklyn with $96 million in salary, they need to reach $139.2 million by October 21. Failure to meet this minimum results in a distribution to their own players and forfeiture of the end-of-season cash distribution to non-tax paying teams.

Over-the-cap teams also have access to the $8.8 million room midlevel exception.

The following players are projected to command contracts exceeding $14 million:

Brooklyn Nets

Projected room: $35 million

From having a record five first-round picks to utilizing nearly $45 million in free agency, the Nets are poised to be active. Besides re-signing restricted free agents Cam Thomas and Day'Ron Sharpe, Brooklyn could be a landing spot for teams looking to shed salary with draft picks attached.

Because teams have to spend 90% of the salary cap, expect Brooklyn to be active in free agency, even if they don't target marquee players. The Nets have $96 million in salary and need to spend an additional $44 million.

Team needs: Lead facilitator and overall depth

Free agents who fit: Josh Giddey, Julius Randle, Tyus Jones, Jonathan Kuminga, Thomas, D'Angelo Russell, Malik Beasley, Malcolm Brogdon, Caris LeVert, Precious Achiuwa, Davion Mitchell, Quentin Grimes, and Oscar Tshiebwe

Moves I would make: Sign restricted free agent center Santi Aldama to a two-year, $40 million offer sheet. Then re-sign Thomas to a three-year $54 million contract. Even with the addition of rookies Egor Demin and Nolan Traore, there should be a priority to re-sign Thomas.

Under contract: Nicolas Claxton, Cameron Johnson, Terance Mann, Noah Clowney, Dariq Whitehead, Keon Johnson (T), Jalen Wilson (T), Tyrese Martin (T), Drew Timme (T), Egor Demin, Nolan Traore, Drake Powell, Ben Saraf and Danny Wolf.

Key free agents: Thomas (R), Sharpe (R)

Other free agents: Johnson, Wilson, Martin, Timme, Russell, De'Anthony Melton, Trendon Watford, Ziaire Williams

Tier 2: Cap Space, but at a Cost

The Detroit Pistons and Memphis Grizzlies could join Brooklyn in the first tier but at the cost of renouncing their own free agents or making a trade. Memphis is likely to create cap space and then renegotiate and extend the contract of Jaren Jackson Jr.

Detroit Pistons

Projected room: TBD

Creating up to $17 million in cap space would significantly impact the Pistons roster. Using this space requires renouncing free agents Malik Beasley, Tim Hardaway Jr., and Dennis Schroder. Beasley could be signed with room, and Detroit would have the $8.8 million room exception available. Alternatively, they could re-sign their own free agents and use the $14.1 million non-tax midlevel exception on Beasley or another free agent.

The Pistons prioritized improving their perimeter shooting and defense last offseason, ranking 10th in defensive efficiency.

Team needs: Perimeter shooting, reserve facilitator, and frontcourt depth

Free agents who fit: Beasley, Hardaway, Schroder, Ty Jerome, Chris Paul, Sam Merrill, Luke Kennard, Gary Trent Jr., Taurean Prince, Nickeil Alexander-Walker, Trey Lyles, Jake LaRavia, Garrison Mathews, Jeff Dowtin Jr.

One move I would make: Sign Beasley to a three-year, $45 million contract. He helped improve the team's 3-point shooting. The Pistons can sign Beasley with cap space and still have the $8.8 room midlevel exception available.

Under contract: Cade Cunningham, Tobias Harris, Isaiah Stewart, Jaden Ivey, Ausar Thompson, Ronald Holland II, Simone Fontecchio, Jalen Duren, Marcus Sasser and Bobi Klintman

Key free agents: Hardaway, Schroder, and Beasley

Other free agents: Lindy Waters III and Paul Reed

Memphis Grizzlies

Projected room: $5 million (Note: Memphis used more than 100% of the traded player exemption to acquire Kentavious Caldwell-Pope and Cole Anthony. The Grizzlies will be hard capped at the first apron.)

The Grizzlies' limited cap space will likely go towards a renegotiation and extension for Jaren Jackson Jr. They can increase Jackson's $23.4 million salary to $30.3 million and then extend for an additional four years and $190 million. Reserves Anthony and John Konchar are trade candidates if the Grizzlies create additional cap space in a Jackson renegotiation. The new contract for Jackson does not affect the restricted free agency of Santi Aldama or the ability to use the $8.8 million room exception.

Team needs: A healthy Ja Morant, spacing combo big and consistent rotational minutes.

Free agents who fit: Brook Lopez, Clint Capela, Larry Nance Jr., Al Horford, Luke Kornet, Kevon Looney, Mason Plumlee, Aldama, Branden Carlson, Micah Potter, Oscar Tshiebwe, Chris Boucher, Trey Lyles

One move I would make: Trade Anthony and two future seconds to the Nets. The $12.5 million in savings this season would help pave the way for Memphis to renegotiate and then extend Jackson's contract.

Under contract: Morant, Jackson, Caldwell-Pope, Anthony, Brandon Clarke, Konchar, Zach Edey, Vince Williams Jr., Scotty Pippen Jr., Jay Huff, GG Jackson, Jaylen Wells and Cedric Coward

Key free agent: Aldama (R)

Other free agents: Luke Kennard, Marvin Bagley III and Lamar Stevens

Tier 3: The $14.1 million Non-Tax Midlevel Exception Club

This tier includes teams with access to the full (or most of) $14.1 million non-tax midlevel exception and $5.1 million biannual exception. Teams can use these exceptions to acquire players in a trade. A team is hard capped at the first apron if they use more than $5.7 million of their non-tax or biannual exception.

Atlanta Hawks

Below the tax: $31 million

Below the first apron: $39 million (Note: Atlanta will use more than 100% of the traded player exemption to acquire Kristaps Porzingis. The Hawks will be hard capped at the first apron.)

The Hawks have been aggressive, trading for Porzingis and selecting Asa Newell in the first round. These moves provide flexibility below the luxury tax and first apron to add backcourt depth. Atlanta has the $14.1 million non-tax midlevel exception and four trade exceptions.

Keep an eye on Trae Young's future and the rookie extension for Dyson Daniels. Young could sign a four-year, $229 million extension and could be a free agent next summer if no agreement is reached.

Team needs: Backcourt help, frontcourt depth, and rim protector

Free agents who fit: Al Horford, Clint Capela, Kevon Looney, Precious Achiuwa, Nickeil Alexander-Walker, Ben Simmons, Chris Paul, Malcolm Brogdon, Ty Jerome, Sam Merrill, Dennis Schroder, Bruce Brown, Day'Ron Sharpe, Isaiah Jackson and Branden Carlson

Moves I would make: In two separate transactions, use part of the non-tax midlevel exception to sign Jerome to a three-year, $35 million contract. The Hawks then use part of their $13.1 million trade exception and acquire Alexander-Walker in a sign-and-trade from Minnesota. As part of the trade, Atlanta sends two future seconds.

Under contract: Young, Jalen Johnson, Porzingis, Onyeka Okongwu, Zaccharie Risacher, Georges Niang, Daniels, Kobe Bufkin, Vit Krejci, Mouhamed Gueye, Dominick Barlow (T) and Newell

Key free agent: Caris LeVert

Other free agents: Capela, Nance and Garrison Mathews

Charlotte Hornets

Below the tax: $22 million

Below the first apron: $30.1 million (Note: Charlotte is using more than 100% of the expanded traded player exemption to acquire Vasilije Micic from Phoenix. The Hornets are hard capped at the first apron.)

The Hornets are near the salary cap and have the draft assets and flexibility to target an All-Star. However, GM Jeff Peterson has stressed a measured rebuild.

The Hornets have the $14.1 million non-tax midlevel and $5.1 million biannual exception available.

Team needs: Perimeter shooting and facilitator

Free agents who fit: Ty Jerome, Malik Beasley, Tyus Jones, Chris Paul, Malcolm Brogdon, Sam Merrill, Dennis Schroder, Luke Kennard, Gary Trent Jr., Jake LaRavia, Tre Mann, Cam Thomas, Nickeil Alexander-Walker, Reece Beekman

One move I would make: Sign Paul to a one-year, $14 million contract.

Under contract: LaMelo Ball, Miles Bridges, Jusuf Nurkic, Grant Williams, Josh Green, Brandon Miller, Tidjane Salaun, Micic, Nick Smith Jr., Josh Okogie, DaQuan Jeffries, Moussa Diabate, Kon Knueppel and Liam McNeeley

Key free agent: Mann (R)

Other free agents: Seth Curry and Taj Gibson

Chicago Bulls

Below the tax: $46 million

Below the first apron: $52 million (Note: Chicago is using more than the Expanded Traded Exception in the Isaac Okoro trade and is hard capped at the first apron)

The Bulls can re-sign Josh Giddey, use their $14.1 million non-tax midlevel exception, and take back money in trades. Chicago has a $17.2 million trade exception from the Zach LaVine deal.

The next contract for Giddey and over $60 million in veteran expiring contracts are major storylines to watch.

Team needs: Frontcourt depth and defense-minded players

Free agents who fit: Giddey, Dorian Finney-Smith, Clint Capela, Larry Nance Jr., Kevon Looney, Braxton Key, Amir Coffey, Nickeil Alexander-Walker, Gary Payton II

Moves I would make: Sign free agent guards Giddey and Tre Jones. The Giddey contract is five years, $120 million. Meanwhile, Jones signs a two-year, $18 million contract.

Under contract: Vucevic, Patrick Williams, Zach Collins, Kevin Huerter, White, Isaac Okoro, Jalen Smith, Ayo Dosunmu, Jevon Carter (P), Matas Buzelis, Dalen Terry, Julian Phillips and Noa Essengue

Key free agent: Giddey (R)

Other free agents: Jones and Talen Horton-Tucker

Houston Rockets

Below the tax: $1 million

Below the first apron: $9 million

Below the second apron: $21 million (Note: After Houston aggregated the contracts of Dillon Brooks and Jalen Green, they are now hard capped at the second apron.)

The Rockets extended Steven Adams' contract and acquired Kevin Durant. Durant could sign a two-year $122 million deal on July 6. The Rockets also brought back Fred VanVleet, Aaron Holiday, Jeff Green and Jae'Sean Tate.

Finding a replacement for Brooks and weighing rookie extensions for Jabari Smith Jr. and Tari Eason are on the Rockets' to-do list.

Team needs: Perimeter shooting

Free agents who fit: Sam Merrill, Luke Kennard, Jake LaRavia, Branden Carlson, Oscar Tshiebwe, Gary Trent Jr., Alec Burks, Bruce Brown, Tim Hardaway Jr.

Moves I would make: Extensions for Durant, Smith and Eason.

Under contract: Alperen Sengun, VanVleet, Durant, Smith, Reed Sheppard, Amen Thompson, Eason, Cam Whitmore, Adams, Jock Landale, Holiday, Green, Tate and Nate Williams

Key free agents: None

New Orleans Pelicans

Below the tax: $6.1 million

Below the first apron: $7.3 million

Below the second apron: $19 million (Note: New Orleans aggregated the contracts of CJ McCollum and Kelly Olynyk. They are now hard capped at the second apron.)

The Pelicans acquired Jordan Poole and Saddiq Bey and selected Jeremiah Fears and Derik Queen in the first round.

The big question is the future of Zion Williamson and whether New Orleans can build a roster around him. Williamson has only played in 46% of regular-season games and has never appeared in the playoffs.

Team needs: Facilitator, rebounding, and perimeter defenders

Free agents who fit: Chris Paul, Gary Payton II, Braxton Key, Larry Nance Jr., Al Horford, Kevon Looney, Dru Smith, Reece Beekman, Malcolm Brogdon, Trey Lyles, Ty Jerome, Tre Jones, Dennis Schroder, Brook Lopez, Jake LaRavia, Luke Kennard, Taurean Prince, Luke Kornet

One move I would make: Guarantee the $39.5 million contract of Williamson.

Under contract: Williamson, Dejounte Murray, Poole, Trey Murphy III, Herbert Jones, Bey, Jordan Hawkins, Jose Alvarado, Yves Missi, Karlo Matkovic, Antonio Reeves, Elfrid Payton (T), Brandon Boston (T), Fears and Queen

Key free agent: Bruce Brown

Other free agents: Boston and Payton

Oklahoma City Thunder

Below the tax: $4.5 million

Below the first apron: $12.1 million

The NBA champions' focus is on extensions for Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Jalen Williams, and Chet Holmgren. The three players could sign new contracts approaching a combined $800 million. The Thunder also have to balance their roster with 16 players under contract.

Team needs: Reserve bigs and lead guard depth

Free agents who fit: Clint Capela, Larry Nance Jr., Al Horford, Kevon Looney, Precious Achiuwa, Mason Plumlee, Trey Lyles, Oscar Tshiebwe, Day'Ron Sharpe, Isaiah Jackson, De'Anthony Melton, Tyus Jones, Malcolm Brogdon

Moves I would make: Besides extending Gilgeous-Alexander, Holmgren and Williams, trade Ousmane Dieng to the Hawks for two future seconds. The move opens a roster spot.

Under contract: Gilgeous-Alexander, Isaiah Hartenstein, Alex Caruso, Luguentz Dort, Holmgren, Isaiah Joe, Aaron Wiggins, Kenrich Williams, Dieng, Jalen Williams, Cason Wallace, Nikola Topic, Dillon Jones, Ajay Mitchell (T), Jaylin Williams (T) and Thomas Sorber

Key free agents: Mitchell and Jaylin Williams

Portland Trail Blazers

Below the tax: $7.9 million

Below the first apron: $14.3 million (Note: The Trail Blazers intend to use more than 100% of the expanded traded player exemption. They are now hard capped at the first apron.)

Because of the expiring contracts of Anfernee Simons, Matisse Thybulle, Robert Williams III and Deandre Ayton, Portland was a wild-card team entering the offseason. Simons was eventually traded for Celtics guard Jrue Holiday and has Portland positioned to compete for at least a play-in spot.

Two internal moves to watch are extensions for Shaedon Sharpe and Toumani Camara. The latter was named All-Defensive second team last season.

Team needs: 3-and-D forwards and wings

Free agents who fit: De'Anthony Melton, Javonte Green, Gary Payton II, Amir Coffey, Gary Trent Jr., Bruce Brown, Lamar Stevens, Delon Wright, Riley Minix, Jabari Walker, Ziaire Williams, Taurean Prince, Trey Lyles

One move I would make: Sign Camara to a four-year, $87 million extension.

Under contract: Ayton, Holiday, Jerami Grant, Deni Avdija, Williams III, Thybulle (P), Scoot Henderson, Donovan Clingan, Sharpe, Kris Murray, Duop Reath, Camara, Rayan Rupert (T) and Yang Hansen

Key free agent: Walker (R)

Other free agents: Rupert and Dalano Banton

Sacramento Kings

Below the tax: $18 million

Below the first apron: $23 million

Sacramento needs a starting point guard but lacks the cap space to sign one in free agency. They have contracts to send out, including DeMar DeRozan and Malik Monk.

The Kings have two max players under contract but can take back money in a trade or use their $14.1 million exception in free agency.

Team needs: Facilitator, shooting, and defense-minded players

Free agents who fit: De'Anthony Melton, Tyus Jones, Chris Paul, Tre Jones, Sam Merrill, Dennis Schroder, Gary Payton II, Braxton Key, Amir Coffey, Ben Simmons, Bruce Brown, Nickeil Alexander-Walker, Taurean Prince, Jake LaRavia, Jae'Sean Tate, Lamar Stevens, Delon Wright, Keaton Wallace, Reece Beekman

One move I would make: Use part of the non-tax midlevel to sign Payton to a two-year, $15 million contract.

Under contract: LaVine, Sabonis, DeRozan, Monk, Keegan Murray, Jonas Valanciunas, Devin Carter, Terence Davis (T), Keon Ellis (T), Isaac Jones (T) and Nique Clifford

Key free agent: Ellis

Other free agents: Jones, Davis, Trey Lyles, Doug McDermott, Jake LaRavia, Jae Crowder and Markelle Fultz

San Antonio Spurs

Below the tax: $27 million

Below the first apron: $32 million

The Spurs have the necessary components to acquire an All-Star player: draft equity, controllable and sizable contracts, and a playoff-caliber roster.

Wembanyama's contract puts San Antonio in a position to take back salary and not face financial restrictions. Besides adding to its roster, the focus is an extension for Fox.

Team needs: Backcourt depth, shooting, and reserve big

Free agents who fit: De'Anthony Melton, Dennis Schroder, Gary Payton II, Tyus Jones, Malik Beasley, Ty Jerome, Tyus Jones, Malcolm Brogdon, Caris LeVert, Chris Paul, Larry Nance Jr., Al Horford, Amir Coffey, Luke Kennard, Gary Trent Jr., Jake LaRavia, Clint Capela, D'Angelo Russell, Quentin Grimes, Santi Aldama, Isaiah Jackson, Kevon Looney

One move I would make: Trade Keldon Johnson, Blake Wesley, a 2029 first (top-four protected), 2032 right to swap in the first (top-two protected) and two future seconds to Brooklyn for Cameron Johnson.

Under contract: Fox, Devin Vassell, Johnson, Harrison Barnes, Wembanyama, Stephon Castle, Jeremy Sochan, Malaki Branham, Wesley, Julian Champagnie, Dylan Harper and Carter Bryant

Key free agent: Chris Paul

Other free agents: Charles Bassey, Jordan McLaughlin, Bismack Biyombo and Sandro Mamukelashvili

Utah Jazz

Below the tax: $22 million

Below the first apron: $30 million

The Jazz hired Austin Ainge to run basketball operations. Ainge reiterated that the Jazz will not deliberately bottom out.

They must develop their former draft picks or parlay their bigger expiring contracts and draft assets into win-now players.

Team needs: Defense-minded talent across the board, veteran habit demonstrators

Free agents who fit: Jonathan Kuminga, De'Anthony Melton, Chris Paul, Malcolm Brogdon, Larry Nance Jr., Luke Kornet, Russell Westbrook, Dennis Schroder, Gary Payton II, Paul Reed, Kevon Looney, Braxton Key, Mason Plumlee, Jae'Sean Tate, James Johnson, Delon Wright, Kyle Lowry, Keaton Wallace, Reece Beekman, Kessler Edwards, Isaiah Jackson, Branden Carlson

One move I would make: Sign Walker Kessler to a five-year, $115 million extension.

Under contract: Lauri Markkanen, Collins (P), Sexton, Clarkson, Taylor Hendricks, Cody Williams, Kessler, Keyonte George, Kyle Filipowski, Brice Sensabaugh, Isaiah Collier, Martin, Juzang, Springer, Mykhailiuk, Bailey and Clayton

Key free agent: None

Washington Wizards

Below the tax: $13 million

Below the first apron: $18 million (Note: The Wizards intend to use more than 100% of the expanded traded player exemption to acquire CJ McCollum and Kelly Olynyk. They are hard capped at the first apron.)

Do the Wizards follow their previous trend of taking back contracts that stretch past this season if draft picks are attached? Washington has nearly $100 million in expiring contracts.

Team needs: Internal development, fundamentally sound guards, and a big who can defend.

Free agents who fit: Ty Jerome, Tyus Jones, Chris Paul, Clint Capela, Larry Nance Jr., Al Horford, Kevon Looney, Paul Reed, Dennis Schroder, Tre Jones, Gary Payton II, Braxton Key, Mason Plumlee, Davion Mitchell, Oscar Tshiebwe, Day'Ron Sharpe, Reece Beekman, Keaton Wallace, Isaiah Jackson, Branden Carlson

One move I would make: Sign veteran Looney to a two-year, $10 million contract.

Under contract: Middleton, McCollum, Smart, Corey Kispert, Alex Sarr, Bilal Coulibaly, Olynyk, Bub Carrington, AJ Johnson, Kyshawn George, Holmes, Anthony Gill, Justin Champagnie, Colby Jones, Tre Johnson and Will Riley

Key free agent: Malcolm Brogdon

Tier 4: Watching Their Own Free Agents

The following teams' salary cap flexibility hinges on their own free agents. For example, the Warriors could have the $14.1 million tax midlevel exception, but only if restricted free agent Jonathan Kuminga is not signed.

Golden State Warriors

Below the tax: $17 million

Below the first apron: $25 million

Below the second apron: $39 million

The Warriors are top-heavy in salary, making Jonathan Kuminga's situation critical.

The Warriors are expected to tender him a $7.9 million qualifying offer, making him a restricted free agent. With limited teams able to offer a starting salary of $20 million or more, a sign-and-trade is possible.

Team needs: Rim protector, frontcourt depth, athleticism, and shooting

Free agents who fit: Kuminga, Malik Beasley, Ty Jerome, Malcolm Brogdon, Tyus Jones, Brook Lopez, Kevon Looney, Luke Kornet, Luke Travers, Sam Merrill, Gary Payton II, Gary Trent Jr., Luke Kennard, Taurean Prince, Nickeil Alexander-Walker, Bruce Brown, Trendon Watford, Alec Burks, Keaton Wallace, Quentin Grimes, Davion Mitchell, Jalen Bridges

One move I would make: Trade Moses Moody to the Knicks for Mitchell Robinson.

Under contract: Curry, Butler, Green, Buddy Hield, Moody, Brandin Podziemski, Trayce Jackson-Davis, Gui Santos (T) and Quinten Post (T)

Key free agent: Kuminga

Other free agents: Payton, Looney, Braxton Key, Kevin Knox II and Pat Spencer

Indiana Pacers

Below the tax: $20 million

Below the first apron: $27 million

Below the second apron: $39 million

The Pacers have 11 players under contract but All-Star Tyrese Haliburton is out indefinitely because of a torn Achilles.

The focus is a new contract for Myles Turner -- but at what cost? A new deal for Turner could affect the futures of Mathurin and Nesmith.

Team needs: Frontcourt and wing depth

Free agents who fit: Turner, Kevon Looney, Ben Simmons, Mason Plumlee, Sandro Mamukelashvili, Jeremiah Robinson-Earl, Branden Carlson, Isaiah Jackson, Micah Potter, Jabari Walker, PJ Hall, Al Horford, Larry Nance Jr.

One move I would make: Sign Turner to a three-year, $75 million contract.

Under contract: Haliburton, Pascal Siakam, Andrew Nembhard, Obi Toppin, Nesmith, T.J. McConnell, Mathurin, Jarace Walker, Ben Sheppard, Johnny Furphy, Tony Bradley (T)

Key free agent: Turner

Other free agents: Bradley, Thomas Bryant, James Johnson and Jackson (R)

LA Clippers

Below the tax: $12 million

Below the first apron: $20 million

Below the second apron: $32 million

James Harden's next contract affects the Clippers' flexibility. If Harden opts-in or signs a new deal with a comparable salary, the Clippers will have access to their non-tax midlevel exception.

Team needs: Reserve lead guard and big

Free agents who fit: Tyus Jones, Chris Paul, Malcolm Brogdon, Larry Nance Jr., Al Horford, Dennis Schroder, Kevon Looney, Gary Payton II, Clint Capela, Dru Smith, Collin Gillespie

Moves I would make: Split the $14.1 million non tax mid level exception to sign Chris Paul and Clint Capela.

Under contract: Kawhi Leonard, James Harden (P), Norman Powell, Ivica Zubac, Bogdan Bogdanovic, Derrick Jones Jr., Kris Dunn, Nicolas Batum (P), Kobe Brown, Cam Christie, Drew Eubanks, Jordan Miller and Yanic Konan Niederhauser

Key free agents: Harden and Batum

Other free agents: Amir Coffey, Patty Mills and Ben Simmons

Los Angeles Lakers

Above the tax: $4 million

Below the first apron: $4 million

Below the second apron: $16 million (Note: After the Lakers sent cash to Chicago during the draft, they are now hard capped at the second apron.)

Beyond the Luka Doncic deal, the Lakers were aggressive at the trade deadline. Expect that same approach.

Though the Lakers don't have cap space to sign a free agent big man, Los Angeles has a 2031 or 2032 first-round pick, five years of pick swaps, former first-round pick Dalton Knecht and over $70 million in expiring contracts to use in a trade.

The Lakers will continue to juggle two timelines: a win-now approach with LeBron James; and building a team that is sustainable for the future centered on Doncic.

Doncic could sign a four-year, $229 million extension. The Lakers could have most of their $14.1 million non-tax midlevel exception but only if Finney-Smith declines his option and does not re-sign.

Team needs: Rim protector, frontcourt, and wing depth

Free agents who fit: Clint Capela, Al Horford, Larry Nance Jr., Kevon Looney, Brook Lopez, Mason Plumlee, Day'Ron Sharpe, Isaiah Jackson, Branden Carlson, Micah Potter, Dorian Finney-Smith, Javonte Green, Jabari Walker

Moves I would make: Build depth at center, starting with trading Vincent, Jordan Goodwin and a second-round pick to Portland for Robert Williams III. Sign Lopez to a one-year, $5.7 million contract.

Under contract: James (P), Doncic, Finney-Smith (P), Hachimura, Reaves, Kleber, Vincent, Jarred Vanderbilt, Knecht, Bronny James, Shake Milton and Goodwin (T)

Key free agent: Jaxson Hayes

Other free agents: Goodwin, Markieff Morris and Alex Len

Miami Heat

Below the tax: $5.8 million

Below the first apron: $11 million

Below the second apron: $23 million

Patience will play a role in how aggressive Miami should be in building the roster.

The Heat will have the flexibility to go after free agents in the 2026 offseason while being active in trade discussions.

Team needs: Backcourt depth and a reserve big

Free agents who fit: Mitchell, Tyus Jones, Malcolm Brogdon, De'Anthony Melton, Chris Paul, Dennis Schroder, Gary Payton II, Bruce Brown, Gary Trent Jr., Kevon Looney, Luke Kornet, Al Horford, Precious Achiuwa, Mason Plumlee, Chris Boucher

Moves I would make: Sign Mitchell to a three-year, $25 million contract. Have Robinson decline his early termination option and then work out a sign-and-trade with the Hawks. The Heat would receive a future second and save nearly $20 million in salary. Miami would then have access to the non-tax midlevel exception.

Under contract: Adebayo, Herro, Andrew Wiggins, Kyle Anderson, Haywood Highsmith, Nikola Jovic, Ware, Kevin Love, Rozier, Jaime Jaquez Jr., Robinson (ETO), Keshad Johnson, Pelle Larsson, and Kasparas Jakucionis

Key free agent: Mitchell (R)

Other free agents: Alec Burks

Milwaukee Bucks

Below the tax: $23 million

Below the first apron: $29 million

Below the second apron: $41 million

Building a championship roster around Giannis Antetokounmpo remains the priority. How Bucks GM Jon Horst identifies players to complement Antetokounmpo in light of the Achilles injury to Damian Lillard is a combination of free agency and trades.

As a result of the Khris Middleton-Kyle Kuzma swap, the Bucks can use the $14.1 million non-tax midlevel exception to sign free agent Gary Trent Jr. or a temporary replacement for Lillard.

The futures of Brook Lopez and Bobby Portis will also need to be addressed.

Team needs: Lead guards and bigs

Free agents who fit: Trent, Myles Turner, Lopez, Portis, Ty Jerome, Tyus Jones, Chris Paul, Malcolm Brogdon, Larry Nance Jr., Al Horford, Luke Kornet, Dennis Schroder, Gary Payton II, Bruce Brown, Nickeil Alexander-Walker, Trey Lyles, Chris Boucher, Trendon Watford, Lindy Waters III, Alec Burks, Jeremiah Robinson-Earl, Santi Aldama, Tre Mann, Reece Beekman, Micah Potter, Branden Carlson

Moves I would make: Acquire Duncan Robinson from Miami in a sign-and-trade for Pat Connaughton. The first-year salary of Robinson is $13 million. Then, sign Schroder to a two-year, $14 million contract. Sign Portis to a two-year, $32 million extension. Finally, sign Kornet to a two-year, $14 million contract.

Under contract: Antetokounmpo, Lillard, Kuzma, Portis (P), Connaughton, (P), Kevin Porter Jr., Tyler Smith, AJ Green, Chris Livingston and Andre Jackson Jr.

Key free agents: Portis, Lopez and Trent

Other free agents: Connaughton, Porter, Taurean Prince, Ryan Rollins (R) and Jericho Sims

Minnesota Timberwolves

Above the tax: $15 million

Above the first apron: $10 million

Below the second apron: $2 million

The Timberwolves enter the offseason with decisions under new ownership.

While Minnesota has 14 players under contract, starter Julius Randle and key reserve Nickeil Alexander-Walker could become free agents. Retaining both could push the Timberwolves over $250 million in payroll.

Team needs: A reserve big and wing shooting

Free agents who fit: Randle, Alexander-Walker, Larry Nance Jr., Al Horford, Luke Kennard, Gary Trent Jr., Jake LaRavia, Trey Alexander, Riley Minix, Luke Kornet, Sam Merrill, Mason Plumlee, Trey Lyles, Taurean Prince, Amir Coffey

One move I would make: Have Randle opt-in to his contract and sign him to a two-year $60 million extension.

Under contract: Anthony Edwards, Rudy Gobert, Randle (P), Jaden McDaniels, Naz Reid, Donte DiVincenzo, Mike Conley, Rob Dillingham, Terrence Shannon Jr., Jaylen Clark, Luka Garza (T), Leonard Miller, Josh Minott (T) and Joan Beringer

Key free agents: Randle and Alexander-Walker

Other free agents: Garza, Minott and Joe Ingles

Orlando Magic

Above the tax: $5.5 million

Below the first apron: $1.5 million

Below the second apron: $13 million (Note: The Magic aggregated the contracts of Kentavious Caldwell-Pope and Cole Anthony in the Desmond Bane trade. As a result, they are hard capped at the second apron.)

Before trading for Bane, the Magic had tried to thread the needle of building their roster via free agent signings and draft picks. The all-in move for Bane shows that Orlando sees an opening in the Eastern Conference to not only compete for a play-in spot but a top-four seed. The Bane trade leaves Orlando projected to pay the luxury tax for the first time since 2010-11.

The offseason now focuses on a rookie max extension for Paolo Banchero.

Team needs: A reserve lead guard and wing shooting

Free agents who fit: Tyus Jones, Malcolm Brogdon, Chris Paul, Sam Merrill, Dennis Schroder, Gary Trent Jr., Landry Shamet, Jake LaRavia, Garrison Mathews, Tim Hardaway Jr., Trey Alexander, Mason Jones, Cam Thomas, Keion Brooks

One move I would make: Sign Jones to a two-year $12 million contract.

Under contract: Wagner, Suggs, Bane, Banchero, Jonathan Isaac, Carter, Goga Bitadze, Anthony Black, Jett Howard, Tristan da Silva, Moritz Wagner (T), Caleb Houstan (T), Jase Richardson

Key free agents: Wagner and Houstan

Other free agents: Harris and Cory Joseph

Philadelphia 76ers

Below the tax: $1.8 million

Below the first apron: $9.8 million

Below the second apron: $21.7 million

After signing Paul George, expect this summer to be quieter in Philadelphia. The priority this offseason ranges from Joel Embiid's health to re-signing Quentin Grimes and Guerschon Yabusele.

Grimes is a restricted free agent, and Philadelphia can exceed the cap to re-sign him. But if the 76ers use more than $5.7 million of the non-tax midlevel exception to sign Yabusele, the first apron gets triggered.

Team needs: A reserve lead guard and perimeter defenders

Free agents who fit: De'Anthony Melton, Tyus Jones, Chris Paul, Malcolm Brogdon, Tre Jones, Javonte Green, Gary Payton II, Braxton Key, Amir Coffey, Gary Trent Jr., Bruce Brown, Lamar Stevens, Delon Wright, Grimes, Guerschon Yabusele, Keaton Wallace, Reece Beekman, Dru Smith, Daniss Jenkins, Taran Armstrong

One move I would make: Sign Grimes to a three-year, $48 million contract.

Under contract: Embiid, George, Tyrese Maxey, Kelly Oubre Jr. (P), Andre Drummond (P), Jared McCain, Eric Gordon (P), Adem Bona, Ricky Council IV, Lonnie Walker IV (T), Justin Edwards (T) and VJ Edgecombe

Key free agents: Yabusele and Grimes (R)

Other free agents: Oubre, Drummond, Gordon, Walker and Jared Butler

Tier 5: The First-Apron Teams

A team is not allowed to use certain roster resources if salary exceeds the first apron ($194.5 million).

Dallas Mavericks

Above the tax: $11 million

Above the first apron: $4.6 million

Below the second apron: $7.3 million

After Kyrie Irving's knee injury, the Mavericks can sign a temporary replacement. Irving agreed to a new three-year deal, giving Dallas the option to use the $5.7 million tax mid level exception.

Team needs: Lead guard and perimeter scoring

Free agents who fit: Ty Jerome,