How long can teams above the Apron offer a mid-level contract?

Teams that are above the Apron, which is a specific salary threshold set in the NBA Collective Bargaining Agreement, can only offer a mid-level exception contract for a maximum duration of three years. The mid-level exception is designed to allow teams to sign players even if they are over the salary cap, but the rules governing this exception help to maintain a competitive balance within the league.

The three-year limit for these contracts ensures that teams cannot lock up players for longer periods while already exceeding cap limitations, which could lead to unfair advantages. This structure supports the overall competitive integrity of the league while providing teams some flexibility in building their rosters.

While other contract lengths, such as 2, 4, and 5 years, are permitted under different circumstances or rule exceptions, the specific stipulation for teams above the Apron restricts them to a three-year mid-level agreement.