Projections for NBA Mid-Level and Bi-Annual Exceptions in 2027/28

The NBA's mid-level and bi-annual exceptions are crucial for over-the-cap teams looking to sign free agents or re-sign their own players. These exceptions are influenced by the salary cap, which is projected to be $174 million for the 2027/28 season.

The standard mid-level exception is available to teams that have not dipped below the cap and can last up to four years with annual raises of 5%. The taxpayer mid-level exception is for teams with salaries between the first and second tax aprons and can run for two years under similar conditions. The room exception is for teams that have gone under the cap, lasting up to three years with 5% raises.

The bi-annual exception, usable for contracts up to two years with a 5% raise after the first year, is restricted to teams over the cap and below the first tax apron. Notably, teams like the Mavericks, Sixers, and Kings will be ineligible for this exception in 2027/28 due to prior usage.