What happened: A breakdown of the NBA's apron mechanics outlines which signings trigger a hard cap. Using the non-taxpayer mid-level exception or the biannual exception hard-caps a team at the first apron, while using the $6.1M taxpayer mid-level exception hard-caps a team at the second apron.

Why it matters: The aprons are the most consequential constraints in the current CBA, dictating how teams can add talent in the offseason. Once a team triggers a hard cap by using a given exception, it cannot exceed that apron line for the rest of the league year, shaping every roster move that follows.

What to watch: Watch how front offices weigh the non-taxpayer mid-level against the taxpayer version, since the choice locks in which apron becomes the team's ceiling for the season.