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NBA free agency for the 2021-22 begins August 2 when teams can officially negotiate contracts with players. The NBA has reportedly set the cap for the season at $112 million and the luxury tax threshold at $136.6 million, according to Adrian Wojnarowski. Here’s a look at which teams are projected to have the most cap space in the upcoming offseason.
The New York Knicks, fresh off the franchise’s first playoff berth in eight seasons, are projected to have north of $50 million in cap space. Unfortunately for the Knicks, the current free agent class does not match the star power of the 2022-23 class. New York may consider signing a handful of players on one-year deals to create enough cap room for two stars next offseason. The San Antonio Spurs are also expected to have a lot of cap space with DeMar DeRozan, Patty Mills and Rudy Gay on the way out. The franchise is on a rebuilding trajectory and might not spend much this summer.
The Dallas Mavericks, Oklahoma City Thunder and Memphis Grizzlies will all have some money to spend in free agency with the Mavs being the most likely to dish out a big deal. Dallas doesn’t quite have a maximum salary slot but is expected to make a big move to support Luka Doncic and a new GM-coach combination. The Thunder are in a long rebuild and likely won’t give out a big deal. The Grizzlies will likely add some rotation pieces with their cap space.
Teams with most cap space, 2021-22 offseason (via Spotrac)
1. New York Knicks - $52.6 million
2. San Antonio Spurs - $48 million
3. Dallas Mavericks - $33.5 million
4. Oklahoma City Thunder - $30 million
5. Memphis Grizzlies - $24.4 million
6. Toronto Raptors - $22.1 million
7. Miami Heat - $20.4 million
8. Charlotte Hornets - $16.8 million