how I summed it up:
I know it's shocking. This is the new normal.
Let me explain it this way. There are 30 "STARS" in the NBA. Basically 24 "ALL-STARS" and a couple of guys who missed the all star team who possibly deserved to be on it. Let's just say 30 "STARS". The "STARS" include the 10 "SUPERSTARS" in the league. The 10 "SUPERSTARS" get paid the same as the "STARS" because of the cap. They get the "MAX" essentially.
Next are the 60 guys in the league that are 1st, 2nd and 3rd best players on each team. These guys are not "STARS" but because many "STARS" team up, not every team has a "STAR". These 60 guys are getting paid MAX, near Max, or something quite high. Think 70 mil over 4 years type of deal or better.
Next are the next 100 guys - these guys are guys with breakout potential, starters (4th or 5th best players on the team), or super subs. These guys are getting 40 to 65 mil per year over 4 years.
Next are the next 100 guys bench guys that play. These guys get 20 mil/3 years-type deal (essentially the new mid-level exception)
Next 160 fringe bench guys that usually do not play. These guys get less than 6 mil per year (below mid-level).
There are a max of 450 NBA players in the league per year (30 teams, with 15 man rosters).
first 30 stars (includes 10 superstars)
next 60 top players
next 100 starters/top rotation players
next 100 bench guys that play
remaining 160 fringe guys - bench warmers who play in case of injury
----
equals 450 NBA players
