What happened: Charlotte generated the exception when its four-team LaMelo Ball trade became official July 10. Eric Pincus' updated tracker lists the slot among the NBA's active trade exceptions.
Why it matters: Charlotte can use the slot to acquire a contract without sending back matching salary. The exception cannot be combined with another exception, limiting how the Hornets can structure a larger deal.
By the numbers: The exception is worth about $40.7 million, the largest in NBA history.
What to watch: Charlotte has until July 2027 to use the exception. The 2027 trade deadline is the next major window to monitor.