Players signed under the designated rookie scale player extension must have a first year salary that is at least what percentage of that year's salary cap?

Players signed under the designated rookie scale player extension must have a first-year salary that is at least 25% of that year's salary cap. This structure is designed to reward teams for successfully developing their young players and securing them for the broader contractual period under favorable terms.

When a player qualifies as a designated rookie — typically based on achievements like being a recent lottery pick or earning individual accolades — the extension not only provides a significant financial incentive for the player but also reflects the player's value within their team's salary cap structure. Having this percentage set at 25% ensures that teams can commit a substantial investment toward their promising young talents while also maintaining balance within the overall salary cap framework.

This mechanism aids in salary cap management, allowing teams to plan their rosters while adhering to salary cap rules, ultimately affecting their long-term financial strategy and competitiveness in the league.