The NBA trade exception is what happens when a team over the cap trades more salary (to a team under the cap) then they get back. The team over the cap, that traded the bigger, salary gets a “trade exception” for the difference of the amount they would’ve been able to take back. They can use the exception to take on more salary in a later trade.
Trade exceptions aren’t usually game-changing but for the Golden State Warriors, it can certainly make a big difference. As a result of the Andre Iguodala trade, they were granted a $17.2 million exception that they plan to utilize.
They could choose to acquire just one player or split the $17.2 million to acquire multiple players. Either way, they have a number of viable options that have been pointed out by Brian Witt of NBC Sports Bay Area.
Ricky Rubio – $17 million
13 Points, 8.9 Assists, 4.6 Rebounds
The Golden State Warriors certainly aren’t in need of a point guard, but Rubio’s offensive brilliance would provide a welcomed boost off the bench. He has been a crucial member of the Suns this season, helping control the offense and set up his teammates for scoring opportunities. He has also improved his outside shooting drastically, going from one of the worst to somewhat decent in that department.
Evan Fournier – $17 million
18.8 Points, 3.2 Assists, 2.6 Rebounds
Evan Fournier is in the midst of a career season in Orlando. While he lacks in other areas of his game, his shooting and scoring ability would make the Warriors that much more lethal on the perimeter. Plus, at 27-years-old, he fits the timeline of the rest of the core and should have his best years ahead of him.
Dennis Schroder – $15.5 million
19 Points, 4.1 Assists, 3.7 Rebounds
Dennis Schroder is one of the biggest reasons why the Thunder have performed so well this season. His play off the bench has been vital in helping the rotation and keeping his team consistent throughout the course of a game. There’s no reason why he wouldn’t be able to replicate his scoring and playmaking abilities in Golden State, where bench depth is a major problem.
Kelly Oubre – $14.3 million
18.7 PPG, 1.5 APG, 6.4 RPG
Kelly Oubre is probably the most coveted name on the list. As a young two-way wing with loads of potential, he’d be an amazing fit the Warriors. He would fill one of their weakest positions, give them some younger legs, and help bolster their dominance on both ends of the floor.
Rudy Gay – $14 million
10.0 PPG, 1.7 APG, 5.4 RPG
Gay’s best days are behind him, but he’d still be a good addition to the Warriors. His size and experience would be valued in Golden State, as would his scoring abilities. Alongside Steph and Klay, he’d get a ton of open looks — which would likely result in a career year for the iconic forward.
Will Barton – $13.9 million
15.1 PPG, 3.7 APG, 6.3 RPG
At 29-years-old, Will Barton is just now hitting his prime. In Denver, he has been a steady and stable presence as the team has dominated the West. He’s an athletic scoring forward who, in the right environment, could thrive.
Thaddeus Young – $13.5 million
10.3 PPG, 1.8 APG, 4.9 RPG
As a powerful forward making just $13.5 million, Thad Young could be one of the most viable options available. The Bulls seem willing to let him go for relatively cheap and his size would be far more appreciated in Golden State. Next to a team of shooters, he’d be called on to rebound, score inside, and guard against bigger frontcourt opponents.
