NBA Cap $165M Tightens Free Agency for LeBron Harden

The NBA told teams the projected 2026-27 salary cap is $165 million, $1 million lower than expected because of "a reduction in local media revenue." That slight cut tightens already slim room for maneuver; only the Grizzlies and Nets currently show positive estimated cap space, and upcoming free agents like Jalen Duren, Austin Reaves and James Harden will feel the squeeze. Merlin sees a modest rise from this season’s $154.6 million, yet front offices must rethink bids, trades and sign-and-trade creativity. A one million dollar shift is small on paper but can reshape offers when most teams are maxed out. The LeBron question adds a final twist to what could be a cautious, deal-heavy offseason.