The NBA offseason is officially here, and we have a much clearer picture of the big questions facing each franchise.
Which decisions on key players, trades and new contracts will matter most?
Let's run through all 30 teams with breakdowns on big-picture priorities, draft assets, potential moves, cap-space possibilities, team needs, likely free agents and depth charts.
Note: Depth charts include expected roles for players under contract in 2018-19. We've included an explainer for Bird rights at the end of this piece.
Jump to a team:
East: ATL | BOS | BKN | CHA | CHI
CLE | DET | IND | MIA | MIL
NYK | ORL | PHI | TOR | WAS
West: DAL | DEN | GSW | HOU | LAC
LAL | MEM | MIN | NOP | OKC
PHX | POR | SAC | SAS | UTA
More: Draft assets | Free-agent lists
Atlanta Hawks
Offseason focus
Enter the free-agent ring or continue building up future assets?
Evaluate the young core and what else it needs
Expiring contracts: Kent Bazemore and Miles Plumlee
Identifying the best value of the draft (five picks in the top 45)
Draft assets
First: 8, 10 and 17
Second: 35
Future: Atlanta has three future first-round picks -- 2020 Cleveland (top-10 protected), 2020 Brooklyn (top-14 protected until 2022) and 2022 Oklahoma City (top-14 protected). The three first will turn into future second-round selections if not conveyed -- Cleveland (2021 and 2022), Brooklyn (2022 and 2024) and Oklahoma City (2024 and 2025).
Cash: None (to receive) | $5.2 million (to send)
Cap-space breakdown
The Hawks will have $23.3 million in room by renouncing the holds on Dewayne Dedmon, Vince Carter and Justin Anderson.
Atlanta has until July 19 to guarantee the $1.4 million contract of Jaylen Adams.
The Hawks will have the $4.8 million room midlevel exception available to use once cap space is extinguished. Their $1.4 million trade exception will be lost once they go under the cap.
Team needs
Rim-protecting center
Bench depth (NBA veterans)
Free-agent status
Dewayne Dedmon | early Bird rights
Vince Carter | non-Bird rights
Justin Anderson | restricted Bird rights
Kent Bazemore | Bird (player option)
Alex Poythress | non-Bird (restricted)
Isaac Humphries | non-Bird (restricted)
Boston Celtics
Offseason focus
The future of free agent Kyrie Irving: What does the roster look like with and without him?
The Celtics' other free agents: Al Horford, Terry Rozier, Marcus Morris and Daniel Theis
Manage the financial situation for this summer and the future
Rookie extension talks with Jaylen Brown
Balancing the roster size and composition with three first-round picks
Draft assets
First: 14, 20, 22
Second: 51
Future: 2020 first-rounder via Memphis (protected Nos. 1-6) or unprotected in 2021
Cash: $5.1 million (to receive) | $2.7 million (to send)
Cap-space breakdown
Despite having $71 million in guaranteed salaries, Boston is over the salary cap as a result of the cap holds for Kyrie Irving, Al Horford, Terry Rozier, Marcus Morris and the three-first round picks.
If Irving leaves and Horford is brought back on a $20 million salary, Boston will still be over the cap (factoring in holds for Rozier and the three first-rounders), but the Celtics would skirt the tax, giving them the ability to use the full $9.2 million midlevel and $3.6 million bi-annual exceptions.
The maximum amount of cap space Boston can have is $27 million, but that would come at the expense of Irving, Horford, Morris and Rozier.
The Celtics have a $1.34 million trade exception.
Team needs
Insurance picks via the draft in case Irving, Rozier and Morris leave in free agency
The Utah version of Gordon Hayward
Replacement for Al Horford
Free-agent status
Kyrie Irving | Bird
Al Horford | Bird
Terry Rozier | restricted Bird
Daniel Theis | restricted early Bird
Marcus Morris | Bird
Brad Wanamaker | restricted non-Bird
RJ Hunter | restricted non-Bird
PJ Dozier | restricted non-Bird
Jonathan Gibson | restricted early Bird
Brooklyn Nets
Offseason focus
The cost of restricted free agent D'Angelo Russell: Which teams are the Nets bidding against?
The Nets are looking like the favorites to land Kyrie Irving. Does a Russell-Irving backcourt work?
Chasing Kevin Durant or second max free agent: Use cap space now or hold until 2020?
The options with cap space: Plan A (land an All-Star) and Plan B (be conservative without taking a step back)
Don't take an aggressive approach on Caris LeVert or Taurean Prince extensions
The direction at the draft: two picks in the top 31
Draft assets
First: 27
Second: 31
Futur: Brooklyn will send Atlanta a 2020 lottery-protected first-rounder. The pick remains lottery protected until 2022 and then converts to second-round picks in 2022 and 2024 if not conveyed.
Cash: $5.2 million (to receive) | $133,000 (to send)
Cap-space breakdown
Brooklyn will have $39.2 million in room once the free-agent holds of DeMarre Carroll, Jared Dudley and Ed Davis are removed. The cap space factors in the $21 million cap hold for Russell and $7.4 million hold for Rondae Hollis-Jefferson.
The Nets can create an additional $2.6 million in cap space if Shabazz Napier and Treveon Graham are waived. Both players have a July 10 guaranteed date.
Creating a second max slot would require renouncing Russell and Hollis-Jefferson.
The Nets will have the $4.8 million room midlevel exception available.
Team needs
All-Star level point guard
Scoring stretch-4
Backup 5 to Jarrett Allen
Free-agent status
D'Angelo Russell | restricted Bird
Rondae Hollis-Jefferson | Bird
DeMarre Carroll | Bird
Ed Davis | non-Bird
Jared Dudley | Bird
Theo Pinson | restricted non-Bird
Alan Williams | restricted non-Bird
Charlotte Hornets
Offseason focus
Kemba Walker: The cost to retain the All-Star and challenges improving the roster if he returns
What's the Plan B if Walker doesn't return?
Jeremy Lamb could become cap casualty as Charlotte approaches the luxury tax
What role will former first-round picks Malik Monk and Miles Bridges have next season?
Turn expiring contracts into value now or wait until 2020? (Bismack Biyombo, Marvin Williams and Michael Kidd-Gilchrist)
Draft assets
First: 12
Second: 36, 52
Cash: $0 (to receive) | $5.2 million (to send)
Cap-space breakdown
With 11 players under contract, including a first-round pick, Charlotte has $101 million in committed salary, $31 million below the tax threshold before Walker is re-signed. The All-Star is expected to cost the Hornets $32.7 million per year. If Walker leaves, Charlotte would only have the $9.2 million midlevel exception to replace him.
Free agent Lamb likely will become a cap casualty if Walker is brought back. Signing Lamb would cost the Hornets a projected $28 million in luxury-tax costs.
The team does have some flexibility with the non-guaranteed contracts of Willy Hernangomez and Dwayne Bacon. However, while waiving both players would shed a total of $3.3 million in salary and open up roster spots, the Hornets would be left with the minimum exception to use in free agency.
The Hornets will have the $5.7 million tax midlevel exception (if Walker returns) that will likely go unused, except if they spend part of it to sign a free agent or second-round pick to a contract that exceeds two seasons.
Charlotte has a $7.8 million trade exception that expires on July 8.
Team needs
Point guard if Kemba Walker leaves
Malik Monk and Miles Bridges to turn into starters
Free-agent status
Kemba Walker | Bird
Jeremy Lamb | Bird
Frank Kaminsky | restricted Bird
Michael Kidd-Gilchrist | Bird (player option)
Shelvin Mack | non-Bird
J.P. Macura | restricted non-Bird
Joe Chealey | restricted non-Bird
Chicago Bulls
Offseason focus
Draft the best available player and don't focus on need
Evaluate the roster performance after the trade deadline and make free-agency decisions from there
Find a solution at point guard
Improve the depth: hit singles in free agency
Draft assets
First: 7
Second: 38
Cash: $0 (to receive) | $5.2 million (to send)
Cap-space breakdown
Taking on the $27.25 million Otto Porter Jr. salary at the trade deadline now has the Bulls with a projected $18.5 million in room to use in free agency or in trades. The cap space reflects all free-agent holds being renounced (including Robin Lopez) except for the first-round pick, plus restricted free agents Wayne Selden and Ryan Arcidiacono.
The maximum amount of room available is $23.8 million if Selden and Arcidiacono are not brought back and the $1.6 million non-guaranteed contracts of Shaquille Harrison and Walter Lemon Jr. are waived.
The Bulls will have the $4.8 million room midlevel to use once cap space is used.
Chicago has a $1.2 million trade exception that will be lost if the Bulls elect to go under the cap.
Team needs
Facilitator at point guard who can lead the offense
Veteran depth on wings
Free-agent status
Robin Lopez | Bird
Wayne Selden | restricted Bird
Ryan Arcidiacono | restricted early Bird
Timothe Luwawu-Cabarrot | Fourth-year restriction
Brandon Sampson | restricted non-Bird
JaKarr Sampson | non-Bird
Rawle Alkins | restricted non-Bird
Cleveland Cavaliers
Offseason focus
What's the direction under new head coach John Beilein?
Embrace the rebuild but keep an eye on finances (will be right at the luxury tax)
Identify the value of Kevin Love on the trade market
Find a resolution with JR Smith: $15.7 million contract becomes guaranteed on June 30
Draft assets
First: 5, 26
Future: 2020 first-round pick to Atlanta (protected Nos. 1-10). The pick will turn into second-rounders in 2022 and 2023 if not conveyed. The Cavaliers own a top-10 protected 2022 first-round pick from Milwaukee (if the Bucks' first to Phoenix is conveyed in 2020). That first-rounder is protected Nos. 1-10 and Nos. 25-30 in 2023 and Nos. 1-8 in 2024.
Cash: $4 million (to receive) | $5.2 million (to send)
Cap-space breakdown
Trading veterans Kyle Korver, Rodney Hood and Alec Burks netted the Cavaliers future draft assets while pushing the team up against the tax.
Factoring in 10 guaranteed contracts, the $3.7 million owed to Smith and two first-round picks, Cleveland is $1.2 million below the $132 million tax threshold.
To stay under the tax, the team can stretch the money owed to Smith over three seasons (if he's not traded), trade the No. 26 pick for a future draft asset or look to move one of the seven expiring contracts (think Jordan Clarkson or Tristan Thompson).
Cleveland likely will have the $5.7 million tax midlevel exception available.
The Cavaliers have three trade exceptions: $2.8M, $1.5M and $1.5M.
Team needs
Combo guard to play along Collin Sexton
3-and-D wing
Free-agent status
David Nwaba | restricted non-Bird
Marquese Chriss | fourth-year restriction
Nik Stauskas | non-Bird
Deng Adel | restricted non-Bird
Jaron Blossomgame | restricted non-Bird
Dallas Mavericks
Offseason focus
Can Luka Doncic help attract top free agents?
Restricted free-agent options with Kristaps Porzingis: Full max or attempt to include protections against future injuries?
Financial creativity while building the bench
How to handle the expiring contract of Courtney Lee
Draft assets
Second: 37
Future: Will send a 2021 unprotected first-rounder and a 2023 top-10 protected first-rounder to New York. The 2023 pick is protected Nos. 1-10 in 2024 and 2025, then converts to a 2025 second-rounder if not conveyed.
Cash: $3.1 million (to receive) | $5.2 million (to send)
Cap-space breakdown
The Mavericks are operating over the salary cap because of the $21.3 million trade exception created when Zach Randolph was acquired from the Kings.
For Dallas to create room, the trade exception will need to be renounced along with the free-agent holds of J.J. Barea, Salah Mejri and Devin Harris.
If all four transactions occur, Dallas will enter the summer with $28.8 million in space. The Mavericks also have the $12.7 million Lee contract to stretch over three seasons, creating $8.2 million in additional room.
The low cap holds of Trey Burke ($1.6M), Maxi Kleber ($1.8M) and Dorian Finney-Smith ($1.9M) give the Mavericks the advantage of using cap space and then signing each player to exceed the cap.
Dallas has until June 29 to guarantee the $1.4 million Ryan Broekhoff contract.
The Mavericks will have the $4.8 million room midlevel exception available
Team needs
Point guard to play alongside Luka Doncic
Shooters around Doncic
Rim-running center
Free-agent status
Kristaps Porzingis | restricted Bird
Devin Harris | non-Bird
Maxi Kleber | restricted early Bird
Dorian Finney-Smith | restricted early Bird
J.J. Barea | Bird
Trey Burke | early Bird
Salah Mejri | Bird
Denver Nuggets
Offseason focus
Rookie extension candidates: Jamal Murray, Malik Beasley and Juan Hernangomez
Expected added impact of Michael Porter Jr., last year's lottery pick
The restricted free agency of Trey Lyles
The $30.4 million team option of Paul Millsap
Draft assets
This season: none
Cash: $5.1 million (to receive) | $5.2 million (to send)
Cap-space breakdown
The Nuggets have 12 players under contract, including the $30.4 million team option for Millsap.
Exercising the Millsap option leaves Denver with $120.7 million in salary -- over the cap but $11.2 million below the luxury tax.
Because of their finances, Lyles likely will not be brought back.
The Nuggets have three trade exceptions that will expire in July worth $13.8M, $12.8M and $5.9M
Expect Denver to have the $9.2 million midlevel and $3.6 million bi-annual exceptions. Using either the bi-annual or more than $5.7 million of the midlevel would hard cap Denver.
Team needs
Power forward: Millsap or a stretch-4
Big wing off the bench who can make shots
Michael Porter Jr. resembling a top-3 pick
Free-agent status
Paul Millsap | early Bird (team option)
Trey Lyles | restricted Bird
Tyler Lydon | third-year restriction
Isaiah Thomas | non-Bird
Brandon Goodwin | restricted non-Bird
Detroit Pistons
Offseason focus
The impact of continuity: 12 players under contract in 2019-20
Building out the bench with financial restrictions, placing a priority on player development
What will it cost to retain backup guard Ish Smith in free agency?
Take a proactive approach with point guard Reggie Jackson (FA in 2020)
Keep an eye on 2020 finances: $87 million in committed salary
Draft assets
First: 15, 30
Second: 45
Cash: $5.2 million (to receive) | $5.2 million (to send)
Cap-space breakdown
The Pistons will head into the offseason faced with the same mandate from previous years: Stay below the luxury tax.
Acquiring Tony Snell and pick No. 30 from Milwaukee has Detroit with $120.5 million in salary, $11.5 million below the luxury tax. That projection factors in the Pistons not exercising the $4.3 million team option for Glenn Robinson III.
Currently with $121 million in salary, $11 million below the tax, Detroit does have flexibility reducing payroll if the $4.3 million team option of Glenn Robinson III is not exercised.
Detroit has trade exceptions worth $2.5M and $1.1M.
Detroit can use the full $9.2 million midlevel exception and still stay under the tax.
Team needs
Versatile wings
Depth at small forward and center
Free-agent status
Ish Smith | Bird
Wayne Ellington | non-Bird
Zaza Pachulia | non-Bird
Jose Calderon | non-Bird
Glenn Robinson | non-Bird (team option)
Kalin Lucas | restricted non-Bird
Isaiah Whitehead | restricted non-Bird
Golden State Warriors
Offseason focus
The impact of the Kevin Durant and Klay Thompson injuries, and finding potential replacements in free agency
The expiring contract of Draymond Green (possible financial flexibility in 2020)
A budget approved by ownership: This will be a $380 million team if Durant and Thompson return
Financial creativity with the bench: first-rounders and minimum players
Draft assets
First: 28
Second: 41, 58
Cash: $5.2 million (to receive) | $3.9 million (to send)
Cap-space breakdown
Despite having $90 million in committed salary, Golden State is over the $109 million salary cap because of the $67 million free-agent holds of Durant and Thompson.
Signing Durant and Thompson to new contracts, filling out the bench with minimums plus a first-round pick and using the $5.7 million taxpayer midlevel to retain Kevon Looney would see the Warriors' payroll skyrocket to $176 million. Because Golden State is a repeater team, the tax penalty would be $203 million. The team could get tax relief if Shaun Livingston is waived. The guard has $2 million of his $7.7 million contract guaranteed. The balance becomes guaranteed if he is not waived by June 30.
If Durant leaves and Thompson returns, Golden State is right at the $132 million luxury tax threshold. Both players signing elsewhere leaves the Warriors with only $14 million in cap space.
The Warriors are likely to have the $5.7 million tax midlevel exception.
Team needs
Starting shooting guard and small forward for the short-term
Depth across the board
Free-agent status
Kevin Durant | Bird (player option)
Klay Thompson | Bird
DeMarcus Cousins | non-Bird
Quinn Cook | restricted early Bird
Jonas Jerebko | non-Bird
Kevon Looney | Bird
Andrew Bogut | non-Bird
Jordan Bell | restricted early Bird
Damion Lee | restricted non-Bird
Marcus Derrickson | restricted non-Bird
Houston Rockets
Offseason focus
Don't have a knee-jerk reaction with the roster after a disappointing finish: The West in wide open in 2019-20
Bargain shopping with the bench: minimums and $5.7 million tax midlevel
Can this team avoid the luxury tax and stay competitive?
The expiring contract of Eric Gordon
Draft assets
This season: None
Cash: $5.1 million (to receive) | $565,000 (to send)
Cap-space breakdown
With $115 million in committed salary to five players, Houston once again will be restricted in the offseason.
Because the Rockets are pressed against the luxury tax, the choice will come down to utilizing Bird rights on a player such as Iman Shumpert or using a combination of the minimum and $5.7 million midlevel exception for the open roster spots.
Taking a conservative approach in free agency and just using the minimum exception leaves Houston right at the $132 million tax threshold.
Houston has five players on partial or non-guaranteed contracts. Isaiah Hartenstein and Gary Clark have $708K guaranteed. The balance for Hartenstein's $1.4 million deal will become fully protected on July 15. In addition, Deyonta Davis has $250K in protection if the forward is not waived by July 31. Davis has a $1.6 million cap hit.
The Rockets have nine trade exceptions: $3.6M, $3.2M, $2.6M, $1.6M, $1.5M, $1.5M, $1.5M, $1.5M and $955,000.
Team needs
Insurance policy for Chris Paul in the backcourt
Scoring off the bench
Free-agent status
Austin Rivers | non-Bird
Gerald Green | early Bird
Nene | early Bird (player option)
Kenneth Faried | non-Bird
Iman Shumpert | Bird
Vincent Edwards | restricted non-Bird
Danuel House Jr. | restricted non-Bird
Trevon Duval | restricted non-Bird
Indiana Pacers
Offseason focus
Prioritize free agent Bojan Bogdanovic
What's the health timeline of Victor Oladipo during his recovery?
Should Indiana value cap space or its own free agents?
Pursue an extension for Domantas Sabonis or wait until he hits restricted free agency?
Draft assets
First: 18
Second: 50
Cash: $5.2 million (to receive) | $5.1 million (to send)
Cap-space breakdown
The Pacers are in a familiar position from last year -- deciding on their own players vs. the ability to create space. Indiana has seven free agents, including three starters: Darren Collison, Bogdanovic and Thaddeus Young.
Creating up to $43.1 million would come at a cost, since the Pacers would need to renounce every free agent on the roster. They would be left with nine players under contract, including their own first-round pick.
Because signing Bogdanovic is a priority, Indiana can leave his $13.6 million cap hold and still have $30 million in room to use in free agency.
Indiana has a June 28 date to exercise the $1.6 million team option of Edmond Sumner and until June 15 to guarantee the $1.4 million Alize Johnson contract.
The Pacers will have the $4.8 million room midlevel exception if they elect to use cap space.
Team needs
Starting point guard and small forward
Second scorer next to Oladipo
Free-agent status
Bojan Bogdanovic | early Bird
Darren Collison | early Bird
Thaddeus Young | Bird
Cory Joseph | Bird
Kyle O'Quinn | non-Bird
Wesley Matthews | non-Bird
Davon Reed | restricted non-Bird
Edmond Sumner | restricted early Bird (team option)
LA Clippers
Offseason focus
The free-agent sales pitch: Can LA build a contender around multiple All-Stars?
The roster impact of adding two max players: Danilo Gallinari would need to be traded
The priority of retaining Patrick Beverley
The contingency plan: Take a short-term approach if no All-Star free agents join
Draft assets
Second: 48, 56
Future: The Clippers own a 2020 first-rounder from Philadelphia (lottery protected) and an unprotected 2021 first-rounder via Miami. The pick from the 76ers is lottery protected until 2022 and will turn into second-rounders in 2022 and 2023 if not conveyed.
Cash: $5.2 million (to receive) | $3.9 million (to send)
Cap-space breakdown
The Clippers are positioned to sign at least one max player and keep the roster intact.
Leaving the holds for Beverley ($9.5 million), Rodney McGruder ($3.0 million) and Ivica Zubac ($1.9 million) against the cap has LA with $42.5 million in room -- enough to sign a player such as Kawhi Leonard or Kevin Durant. To create a double max slot, Gallinari would need to be traded.
The Clippers have a $9.8 million trade exception available but would lose it if they elect to go under the salary cap.
LA will have the $4.8 million room midlevel exception.
Team needs
All-Star level small forward
Prioritize free agent Patrick Beverley or have a replacement guard ready
Depth at the 4 and 5
Free-agent status
Garrett Temple | Bird
JaMychal Green | Bird
Wilson Chandler | Bird
Patrick Beverley | Bird
Ivica Zubac | restricted Bird
Angel Delgado | restricted non-Bird
Johnathan Motley | restricted non-Bird
Rodney McGruder | restricted early Bird
Los Angeles Lakers
Offseason focus
The timing of the AD trade: $32.0 vs. $23.8 million in cap space depending on when the deal is official
The direction with cap space: one max star (if the trade includes a third team) or split the money on 2-3 rotation players
Draft assets
This season: None
Future: Will send New Orleans a 2021 first-round pick (protected Nos. 9-30). The pick will become unprotected in 2022 if not conveyed. Will also send an unprotected first-round pick in 2024 that the Pelicans can choose to defer to 2025. New Orleans has the right to swap first-round picks in 2023.
Cash: $5.2 million (to receive) | $3.7 million (to send)
Cap-space breakdown
The timing of the Davis trade will dictate how much cap space Los Angeles has available.
If the Lakers can find a third team to take back the contracts of Moritz Wagner, Isaac Bonga and Jemerrio Jones, the team will be allowed to use $32 million in free agency and still conduct the Davis trade on July 6. In this scenario, Davis would need to waive his $4.1 million trade bonus.
Not being able to find a third team leaves the Lakers with $23.8 million of cap space after the Davis trade, which they can use on multiple free agents. This also factors in Davis waiving his $4.1 million bonus. If the Lakers elect to keep the $4.75 million Reggie Bullock cap hold, they would have $20 million in room, but that would come with the ability to exceed the cap to bring back the shooting guard.
The Lakers will have the $4.8 million room midlevel exception available.
Team needs
Point guard
Shooting
Wing defenders
Free-agent status
Kentavious Caldwell-Pope | early Bird
Mike Muscala | Bird
Reggie Bullock | Bird
Lance Stephenson | non-Bird
JaVale McGee | non-Bird
Tyson Chandler | non-Bird
Rajon Rondo | non-Bird
Alex Caruso | restricted early Bird
Johnathan Williams | restricted non-Bird
Memphis Grizzlies
Offseason focus
Stability at head coach: Taylor Jenkins is now the third HC in three years
All eyes on Ja Morant after the Mike Conley trade
Can this roster retool and stay competitive without a full rebuild?
Finding tax relief in a new Jonas Valanciunas contract
Sit tight with the Chandler Parsons contract
Draft assets
First: 2, 23
Future: Will send Boston its first-round pick in 2020 (top-6 protected). If the pick is not conveyed, Memphis will send an unprotected first in 2021. Own Utah's 2020 first-round pick (protected Nos. 1-7 and 15-20, with the same protection in 2021). Those protections drop to top-6 in 2022, top-3 in 2023 and top-1 in 2024 before converting to two second-round picks.
Cash: $5.2 million (to receive) | $2.6 million (to send)
Cap-space breakdown
The Conley trade will give the Grizzlies salary-cap relief now and in the future. Previously against the luxury tax heading into July, the Grizzlies now have flexibility to sign Valanciunas to a long-term contract, retain Avery Bradley and still have the ability to use the full $9.2 midlevel and $3.6 million bi-annual exceptions.
There is a path for Memphis to get under the cap, but that would require the team to waive five players signed to partial or non-guaranteed contracts and renounce the free-agent holds for Justin Holiday and Delon Wright, while signing Valanciunas to a contract that starts at $14 million per year. In this scenario, Memphis would have $14 million in cap space.
Memphis will need to make decisions on Bradley and Kyle Korver by early July. Bradley has $2 million guaranteed with the remaining balance of $10.9 million becoming protected if he is not waived by July 3. Memphis has until July 10 to guarantee the $7.5 million contract of Korver. There is currently $3.4 million protected.
Dillon Brooks (July 5 deadline for $1.6M) and Ivan Rabb (July 15 deadline for $1.6M) have guarantee dates in their contracts, and Bruno Caboclo has $300K protected (out of $1.8M) if he is not waived by July 10.
As a result of the Conley trade, Memphis now has a $25.0 million trade exception, along with two more trade exceptions worth $1.5 million.
Team needs
Starting 2-guard if Avery Bradley doesn't return
Veteran PG to help mentor Morant
Bring back Valanciunas on a team-friendly deal
Free-agent status
Jonas Valanciunas | Bird
Delon Wright | restricted Bird
Justin Holiday | early Bird
Tyler Dorsey | restricted Bird
Joakim Noah | non-Bird
Tyler Zeller | non-Bird
Miami Heat
Offseason focus
Maintain realistic expectations with the roster and the financial constraints.
Build around the core three of Josh Richardson, Justise Winslow and Bam Adebayo for the future.
Treat the draft as the time to add a key piece to improve the roster.
Patience for the summer of 2020 and 2021, when financial flexibility will be possible
Manage the $67 million in expiring contracts: Goran Dragic, Hassan Whiteside and Ryan Anderson.
Draft assets
First: 13
Second: 44
Future: Will send a 2021 unprotected first-rounder to the Clippers.
Cash: $5.2 million (to receive) | $1.5 million (to send)
Cap-space breakdown
Miami is in a position that no team wants to be in: outside the playoffs with a roster that offers little flexibility to improve.
If the roster is going to show improvement, it will come from the lottery pick, scouring the free-agent/undrafted market for low-bargain additions or on the trade front (think the expiring contracts of Whiteside, Dragic or Anderson).
Yante Maten and Duncan Robinson have partially guaranteed contracts. Maten has $100K guaranteed that will increase to $150K if he is not waived by Aug. 1, and Robinson has $250K that increases to $1M if he is not waived by July 15. Kendrick Nunn has $50K guaranteed if he is not waived by July 1.
The Heat will have the $5.7 million tax midlevel exception available.
Miami has a $6.3 million trade exception.
Team needs
A healthy roster
Improvement from the role players
Free-agent status
Hassan Whiteside | Bird (player option)
Udonis Haslem | Bird
Milwaukee Bucks
Offseason focus
Prioritizing Khris Middleton and Malcolm Brogdon in free agency
Take advantage of the Middleton and Brogdon cap holds; explore what else is available in free agency
Balance the cap ledger to bring back Brook Lopez
The importance of hitting in the June draft (Milwaukee owes future first-round picks)
Keep an eye on the 2020-21 payroll: Giannis Antetokounmpo is supermax eligible in 2020.
Draft assets
This season: None
Future: Will send a 2020 first-rounder to Phoenix (protected Nos. 1-7). If the pick doesn't convey, Milwaukee will send Phoenix an unprotected first-rounder in 2021.The Bucks will also send a 2022 first-rounder to Cleveland (top-10 protected). The pick is protected Nos. 1-10 and Nos. 25-30 in 2023 and Nos. 1-8 in 2024. If not conveyed, the pick will turn into second-rounders in 2024 and 2025. The year Cleveland receives the pick is dependent on when Milwaukee's pick to Phoenix is conveyed, but 2022 is likely.
Cash: $5.2 million (to receive) | $5.2 million (to send)
Cap-space breakdown
Milwaukee likely will start the summer under the cap and end it over the luxury tax.
After the Snell trade, Milwaukee now has a projected $13 million in room, a number that could increase to $19 million if Jon Leuer is stretched. The Bucks also have the non-guaranteed contracts of Pat Connaughton ($1.7 million) and Sterling Brown ($1.6 million), expected to be on the roster past their July 1 guarantee date. The room could be used toward Brook Lopez or a replacement at center. To go under the cap, the $18 million George Hill contract (has $1 million guaranteed) would need to be waived by July 1, with all cap holds renounced except for Brogdon and Middleton.
Once cap space is used, Milwaukee will turn to signing Middleton and Brogdon. Their combined salaries projects to be north of $50 million, putting Milwaukee into the luxury tax.
Because Milwaukee will likely act under the cap, the team will have the $4.8 million room exception.
Team needs
Backup point guard
Best option is to prioritize own free agents (Brogdon, Middleton, Lopez) rather than get tempted by cap space
Free-agent status
Khris Middleton | Bird (player option)
Malcolm Brogdon | restricted Bird
Nikola Mirotic | Bird
Brook Lopez | non-Bird
Tim Frazier | non-Bird
Pau Gasol | non-Bird
Minnesota Timberwolves
Offseason focus
Explore the trade value of Jeff Teague
Define a role for Andrew Wiggins (should he come off the bench?)
Derrick Rose: priority or luxury in free agency?
Draft assets
First: 11
Second: 43
Cash: $5.2 million (to receive) | $5.2 million (to send)
Cap-space breakdown
The Timberwolves are considered one of those in-between teams -- not under the salary cap and not pressed against the luxury tax.
Removing all the free-agent holds except for the first-round pick and Tyus Jones leaves Minnesota with 10 players under contract and $120 million in salary.
While the team will have the $9.2 million midlevel and $3.6 million bi-annual exceptions available, using the full amount -- while filling out the roster with minimum contracts and retaining Jones -- would put the Wolves close to the luxury tax.
The Timberwolves have a $2.7 million trade exception.
Barring a roster overhaul, expect the lottery pick to be the big offseason addition.
Team needs
Point guard with starter potential to replace Jeff Teague
Depth at small forward and power forward
Free-agent status
Taj Gibson | early Bird
Anthony Tolliver | non-Bird
Derrick Rose | early Bird
Luol Deng | non-Bird
Jerryd Bayless | Bird
Tyus Jones | restricted early Bird
Jeff Teague | early Bird (player option)
C.J. Williams | restricted non-Bird
Jared Terrell | restricted non-Bird
Mitch Creek | restricted non-Bird
New Orleans Pelicans
Offseason focus
The basketball vision of new president David Griffin -- retool instead of rebuild
The new face of the franchise: Zion Williamson
The value of the No. 4 pick: Keep or look to move?
What's the best way to use this $20 million in cap space?
Draft assets
First: 1, 4
Second: 39, 57
Future: The Pelicans own a 2021 first-round pick from the Lakers that is protected Nos. 9-30, and it becomes unprotected in 2022 if not conveyed. They also own an unprotected first-round pick in 2024 via the Lakers (which New Orleans can defer to 2025) plus first-round swap rights in 2023.
Cash: $4.4 million (to receive) | $5.2 million (to send)
Cap-space breakdown
If the Anthony Davis trade with Los Angeles occurs on July 6, New Orleans will have $19 million to use in cap space.
The Pelicans have five players on non-guaranteed contracts: Frank Jackson, Dairis Bertans, Kenrich Williams, Jahlil Okafor and Christian Wood. The $1.6 million contract of Jackson becomes fully guaranteed if he is not waived by June 30. In the unlikely scenario that all five players are waived, the Pelicans would have $23 million in room.
The Pelicans will have the $4.8 million room midlevel exception.
Team needs
Starting center who fits next to Zion
A healthy Lonzo Ball and Brandon Ingram
Free-agent status
Julius Randle | non-Bird
Ian Clark | early Bird
Elfrid Payton | non-Bird
Darius Miller | early Bird
Cheick Diallo | restricted Bird
Stanley Johnson | restricted Bird
Trevon Bluiett | restricted non-Bird
New York Knicks
Offseason focus
Don't overthink the draft decision at No. 3: Select the best player available (regardless of fit, likely RJ Barrett) or look to trade if the offer is particularly good
Nail the sales pitch in free agency: projected $69.8 million in room to recruit two max players
Establish a Plan B if top stars pass: Take back bad contracts and draft picks (don't try to win now).
Draft assets
First: 3
Second: 55
Future: New York owns an unprotected first-rounder in 2021 and a top-10 protected first-rounder in 2023 via the Mavericks. The 2023 pick is protected Nos. 1-10 in 2024 and 2025, then converts to a 2025 second-rounder if not conveyed.
Cash: $5.2 million (to receive) | $5.2 million (to send)
Cap-space breakdown
Currently with $30.6 million in committed salary, New York could have up to $69.8 million in room.
That room factors in $5.4 million of incomplete roster charges and five players under contract, including the non-guaranteed salary of Damyean Dotson. The cap hit of this year's first-round pick is also included.
The Knicks also will have the $4.8 million room midlevel exception.
Team needs
Everything besides a starting center
Free-agent status
Noah Vonleh | non-Bird
Emmanuel Mudiay | restricted Bird
Mario Hezonja | non-Bird
DeAndre Jordan | non-Bird
Luke Kornet | restricted early Bird
Isaiah Hicks | restricted early Bird
John Jenkins | non-Bird (team option)
Henry Ellenson | non-Bird (team option)
Billy Garrett | non-Bird restricted (team option)
Oklahoma City Thunder
Offseason focus
Making the roster work: $96 million committed in 2019-20 to Russell Westbrook, Paul George and Steven Adams
George's health timeline (when will he be back to full strength after surgery?)
Is $200 million in total cost justified for this roster in 2019-20?
Bargain shopping for shooting: minimum, tax midlevel or trade
The health of Andre Roberson
Nail the June draft: possibly no first-rounder in 2020 and 2022
Draft assets
First: 21
Future: Will send a 2020 first-round pick (protected Nos. 1-20) to Philadelphia and a 2022 first-round pick (lottery protected) to Atlanta. The Thunder will send second-rounders to Philadelphia in 2022 and 2023 if the 2020 pick doesn't convey, plus second-rounders to Atlanta in 2024 and 2025 if that pick doesn't convey.
Cash: $4.8 million (to receive) | $411,000 (to send)
Cap-space breakdown
The roster remains intact as Oklahoma City has 13 players under contract, including a first-round pick in June.
With stability comes a league-high $150 million in payroll entering the offseason. Because of the repeater tax, Oklahoma City projects to have a tax bill of $56.5 million. This will be the fifth time in six season that the team is in the tax.
Oklahoma City has the $5.7 million tax midlevel exception available in free agency. However, using the full exception would cost an additional $24 million toward the tax.
The team has two trade exceptions: $10.8 million and $1.5 million.
Team needs
Stretch-4
Shooting off the bench
A healthy Andre Roberson
Free-agent status
Raymond Felton | early Bird
Nerlens Noel | non-Bird (player option)
Markieff Morris | non-Bird
Jawun Evans | restricted non-Bird
Orlando Magic
Offseason focus
The free agency of Nikola Vucevic: At what point is he too expensive to retain?
Sixth man Terrence Ross: Can Orlando find his replacement in free agency or the draft?
Stay the course at point guard (for now)
Monitor the health of Markelle Fultz
Draft assets
First: 16
Second: 46
Cash: $2.2 million (to receive) | $5.2 million (to send)
Cap-space breakdown
The choice in Orlando comes down to retaining free agents vs. creating minimal cap space for 2019-20.
Until there is a resolution with Vucevic, Orlando is in a holding pattern when it comes to flexibility. Vucevic has a $19.1 million hold that leaves Orlando right at the salary cap. Signing the center to a market-friendly $22 million annual contract would leave the Magic with the $9.4 midlevel and $3.6 million bi-annual exceptions to use in free agency
If Vucevic and Ross do not return, Orlando will have $17 million in room.
Team needs
Depth at the wing spots
Prioritize own free agents (Vucevic and Ross)
Free-agent status
Nikola Vucevic | Bird
Terrence Ross | Bird
Jerian Grant | restricted Bird
Jarell Martin | restricted Bird
Khem Birch | restricted early Bird
Wes Iwundu | restricted early Bird (team option)
Amile Jefferson | restricted non-Bird
Troy Caupain | restricted non-Bird
Michael Carter-Williams | non-Bird
Philadelphia 76ers
Offseason focus
What's the total cost to retain Jimmy Butler and Tobias Harris? Is ownership comfortable with those future finances?
What's the contingency plan if Butler and Harris leave?
Have a plan to build out the bench, given the roster restrictions
The Ben Simmons extension: max contract eligible starting on July 1
The direction in the second round with four picks
Draft assets
First: 24
Second: 33, 34, 42, 54
Future: Will send the Clippers a first-rounder in 2020 (lottery protected). The pick is lottery protected through 2022 and then converts to second-rounders in 2023 and 2024 if not conveyed.
Cash: $2.7 million (to receive) | $5 million (to send)
Cap-space breakdown
Philadelphia enters the offseason with $41.4 million in committed salary but nine free agents, including three starters (Butler, Harris and JJ Redick). Their free-agent holds have the 76ers over the salary cap.
Philly can use Bird rights to bring back its free agents and exceed the salary cap. The combined annual cost of the three starters is projected to be in the $70 million to $75 million range. Despite the high cost, Philadelphia still projects to stay under the $132 million luxury tax. That will change in 2020-21 when the 76ers would project to have $126 million in committed salary among four players.
Allowing Butler to walk and bringing back Harris and Redick would leave the 76ers with $25 million in cap space.
The maximum amount of room the Sixers can have is $61 million -- but with only Joel Embiid, Ben Simmons, Zhaire Smith, Jonah Bolden and their 2019 first-round pick on the roster.
Jonathon Simmons has $1 million guaranteed of his $5.7 million contract, with the difference becoming protected if he is not waived by July 1.
Philadelphia has two trade exceptions: $2.3 million and $957,000.
Team needs
Depth off the bench
Retain Butler and Harris
Free-agent status
Jimmy Butler | Bird (player option)
Tobias Harris | Bird
JJ Redick | early Bird
Amir Johnson | early Bird
Boban Marjanovic | Bird
Mike Scott | non-Bird
Greg Monroe | non-Bird
Furkan Korkmaz | Third-year restriction
T.J. McConnell | Bird
Phoenix Suns
Offseason focus
Multiple options in the lottery at No. 6: Best player available or trade?
The challenge of manufacturing cap flexibility: No space available without making a trade or letting Kelly Oubre Jr. walk.
Find a solution at point guard without cap space: second-tier free agent or the trade market
How much will it cost to retain Oubre?
Gauge the trade market for T.J. Warren
Draft assets
First: 6
Second: 32
Future: Own a 2020 first-round pick (protected Nos. 1-7) from Milwaukee. The pick becomes unprotected in 2021 if not conveyed.
Cash: $3.4 million (to receive) | $4.2 million (to send)
Cap-space breakdown
The Suns' cap flexibility will come down to what happens with Oubre (restricted free agent) or Josh Jackson (potential trade candidate). The Suns could have between $16 million and $20 million if either player is not brought back.
With Oubre's hold counting $9.6 million against the cap, Phoenix has roughly $8.4 million in room.
The Suns have a June 29 deadline for team options on Jimmer Fredette and Ray Spalding. Each player would be guaranteed $250,000 if the option is exercised.
Team needs
Fill the void at point guard
NBA-caliber bench players
Free-agent status
Kelly Oubre Jr. | restricted Bird
Troy Daniels | Bird
Dragan Bender | Fourth-year restriction
Jamal Crawford | non-Bird
Richaun Holmes | Bird
Tyler Johnson | Bird (player option)
George King | restricted non-Bird
Jimmer Fredette | non-Bird (team option)
Ray Spalding | non-Bird (team option)
Portland Trail Blazers
Offseason focus
The extension options for Damian Lillard: supermax eligible in July
CJ McCollum's long-term value: two years left on his contract (extension eligible)
Roster restrictions with the current free agents
The health timeline of Jusuf Nurkic
Draft assets
First: 25
Cash: $5.2 million (to receive) | $5.2 million (to send)
Cap-space breakdown
The Blazers are likely headed for the luxury tax for a second consecutive season.
The roster returns 11 players (plus a first-round pick) with $128 million in committed salary, $4 million below the tax.
Portland does have Bird rights on Jake Layman and Al-Farouq Aminu but will likely lose Rodney Hood, Enes Kanter and Seth Curry to free agency.
The Blazers will have the $5.7 million tax midlevel exception available and also a $1.7 million trade exception.
Team needs
Replenish the bench, especially at both guard spots and center
Free-agent status
Al-Farouq Aminu | Bird
Jake Layman | restricted Bird
Enes Kanter | non-Bird
Rodney Hood | non-Bird
Seth Curry | non-Bird
Sacramento Kings
Offseason focus
Year 1 under new head coach Luke Walton
Don't be content with 2018-19: the challenge of taking the next step and making the playoffs
Find middle ground with Harrison Barnes on a new contract
Take a conservative approach with Willie Cauley-Stein (he's low on the free-agent pecking order)
The rookie extension options of Buddy Hield: waiting and maintaining flexibility should be a priority
Draft assets
Second: 40, 47 and 60
Cash: $3.7 million (to receive) | $5.2 million (to send)
Cap-space breakdown
The Kings took an aggressive approach at the trade deadline by sacrificing cap flexibility this summer and acquiring Barnes. The Kings now have regained that flexibility as Barnes decided not to opt into to his $25.1 million player option for 2019-20.
Bringing Barnes back on a $17-18 million annual contract would leave the Kings with $28 million in room, including the $14.1 million hold for Cauley-Stein. If both players leave in free agency, that room will increase to $60 million.
Sacramento could have additional flexibility with the non-guaranteed contracts of Yogi Ferrell, Frank Mason and BJ Johnson. Ferrell has a July 4 guarantee date on his $3.1 million contract.
The Kings will have the $4.8 million room midlevel exception available.
Team needs
Starting center
Wing defenders off the bench
Free-agent status
Harrison Barnes | Bird
Willie Cauley-Stein | restricted Bird
Alec Burks | Bird
Kosta Koufos | Bird
Troy Williams | restricted non-Bird
Corey Brewer | non-Bird
San Antonio Spurs
Offseason focus
Retooling with youth: 10 players under age 25 (including three draft picks)
The expiring contract of DeMar DeRozan: look to extend? 2020 is a below-average free-agent class, so cap space might not be very valuable
Patience with Dejounte Murray as he returns from injury
Draft assets
First: 19, 28
Second: 49
Cash: $5.2 million (to receive) | $243,000 (to send)
Cap-space breakdown
The buyout of Pau Gasol gave the Spurs some minor financial relief, but they will be operating right at the cap when July approaches. ·
The good news is that a roster that overachieved this season returns 11 players on guaranteed contracts and adds two first-round picks.
Expect San Antonio to have the full $9.2 million midlevel exception available, plus early Bird rights on Rudy Gay to sign and exceed the salary cap.
Team needs
Length on the wings
Free-agent status
Rudy Gay | early Bird
Dante Cunningham | non-Bird
Quincy Pondexter | non-Bird
Ben Moore | restricted non-Bird
Donatas Motiejunas | non-Bird
Toronto Raptors
Offseason focus
Waiting on Kawhi Leonard's free-agent decision after a year of in-house recruitment
The finances of a Leonard return: Can Danny Green be brought back?
Try to contend or rebuild if Leonard leaves?
The player option of Marc Gasol
The expiring contracts of Kyle Lowry and Serge Ibaka
The extension options with Pascal Siakam
Draft assets
Second: 59
Cash: $23,000 (to receive) | $5.2 million (to send)
Cap-space breakdown
Until Leonard makes a free-agency decision, Toronto will be in a holding pattern with its finances.
If Leonard returns, Toronto will have $144 million in committed salary, $14 million over the luxury tax, with Green still unsigned. The team would have the $5.7 million tax midlevel exception available.
Leonard signing with another team would leave Toronto over the cap with $112 million in salary and the $9.2 million midlevel and $3.8 million bi-annual exceptions available. The Raptors would still have the option to bring back Green and exceed the cap.
If Gasol opts out of his contract and Leonard does not return, Toronto will have $21 million in room.
Toronto has four trade exceptions: $2.9M, $2.5M, $1.6M and $1.5M
Team needs
Forward replacement for Leonard if he departs
More depth on the wings
Free-agent status
Kawhi Leonard | Bird (player option)
Marc Gasol | Bird (player option)
Danny Green | Bird
Patrick McCaw | restricted non-Bird
Jeremy Lin | non-Bird
Jodie Meeks | non-Bird
Eric Moreland | non-Bird
Utah Jazz
Offseason focus
What's next after the Conley trade? Identify shooting with the $4.8 million room midlevel and minimum exceptions
Decide on the non-guaranteed contracts of Derrick Favors, Raul Neto and Royce O'Neal
Draft assets
First: None
Second: 53
Future: Will send Memphis a 2020 first-rounder (protected Nos. 1-7 and 15-20, with the same protection in 2021). Those protections drop to top-6 in 2022, top-3 in 2023 and top-1 in 2024 before converting to two second-round picks.
Cash: $5.2 million (to receive) | $5.2 million (to send)
Cap-space breakdown
The Jazz have built their roster through the draft and trades, with free agency as a distant third option. That same pattern was followed when they acquired Conley from Memphis.
With Conley on board, expect Utah to guarantee the $17.75 million contract of Derrick Favors by the July 6 deadline. The $2.1 million contract of backup guard Raul Neto also becomes guaranteed on July 6.
Utah will have the $4.8 million room exception
Team needs
Shooters off the bench
Backup big who can stretch the floor
Free-agent status
Ricky Rubio | Bird
Thabo Sefolosha | early Bird
Ekpe Udoh | early Bird
Tyler Cavanaugh | restricted non-Bird
Naz Mitrou-Long | restricted early Bird
Washington Wizards
Offseason focus
What's the direction under a new GM?
Prioritize own free agents: possible eight FAs but no roster flexibility to replace them if they walk
The future of Bradley Beal: build around or trade?
Keep an eye on finances in 2021: Possible $90 million backcourt of John Wall and Beal
Draft assets
First: 9
Cash: $5.2 million (to receive) | $2.4 million (to send)
Cap-space breakdown
The Wizards do not have cap space to sign free agents other than their own but could bring back a combination of Tomas Satoransky, Thomas Bryant, Bobby Portis and perhaps Trevor Ariza while staying below the luxury tax.
Washington projects to have $95 million in guaranteed contracts, roughly $37 million below the tax.
Along with six trade exceptions ($8.6M, $6M, $5.4M, $957,000, $714,000 and $694,000) expect the Wizards to have the $5.7 million taxpayer midlevel exception available if needed.
Team needs
A healthy John Wall
Prioritize own free agents (Satoransky and Portis)
Free-agent status
Tomas Satoransky | restricted Bird
Bobby Portis | restricted Bird
Sam Dekker | restricted Bird
Trevor Ariza | non-Bird
Jabari Parker | non-Bird (team option)
Jeff Green | non-Bird
Chasson Randle | restricted non-Bird
Thomas Bryant | restricted early Bird
Devin Robinson | restricted early Bird
Bird rights explainer
Bird rights
A team can exceed the cap to sign a free agent who has played three consecutive seasons with his current team (carries over in a trade).
Restricted: A free agent either coming off his first-round rookie contract or who has signed a three-year contract and has three years of service or fewer. A player becomes restricted if he receives a qualifying offer before June 30. His current team has the right to match any offers.
Early Bird rights
Teams can exceed the cap to sign a player who has spent two consecutive seasons with a team (without being waived, carries over in a trade), but they are restricted to 175 percent of his previous salary or 105 percent of the average player salary. A team can exceed either limit with available cap space. Minimum years on a new deal is two (not including options) and maximum is four.
Restricted: A free agent who signed a two-year contract, has three years of service or fewer and receives a qualifying offer before June 30. The maximum allowable in an offer sheet cannot exceed the $9.2 million non-taxpayer midlevel in the first year.
Non-Bird rights
A free agent who has played one season with a team can sign for 120 percent of his previous contract or 120 percent of the minimum salary exception. Teams can exceed either limits but only with cap space or an exception.
Restricted: The maximum allowable in an offer sheet from an opposing team cannot exceed the $9.2 million non-tax midlevel in the first year.
Other: A player who had his third or fourth year in his rookie deal declined will not be a restricted free agent. The current team can offer a contract up to the salary of only the declined option.