The NBA is exploring the possibility of adding teams in Las Vegas and Seattle, potentially starting with the 2028-29 season. This development could significantly impact the league’s structure, including future NBA mock drafts.
Expansion fees for new teams are projected to range between $7 and $10 billion, indicating the financial stakes involved. Currently, there are 30 NBA teams, but this number could rise to 32 if the expansion proceeds.
Seattle has been without an NBA team since the SuperSonics relocated to Oklahoma City in 2008, making it the largest city in the U.S. without a franchise. Meanwhile, Las Vegas has gained recognition as the NBA’s unofficial 31st city, thanks to its growing popularity and the hosting of the NBA Summer League.
For the expansion to take place, 23 of the 30 existing NBA owners must approve the decision. If both teams are added in the Western Conference, one franchise will need to move to the Eastern Conference to maintain balance.
The NBA’s current media rights deal, valued at $76 billion over 11 years, underscores the league’s financial health and its capacity for expansion. Additionally, the NBA is expected to review the expansion draft process and salary cap implications before any formal vote takes place.
In terms of financial distribution, if both new teams were to sell for $15 billion, each existing NBA owner could receive approximately $500 million. The projected salary cap for an expansion team in its inaugural season is estimated to be $121.9 million, compared to $183 million for existing franchises.
Expansion teams will have a minimum spending requirement of 90% of the salary cap, ensuring they remain competitive. As discussions continue, an unnamed source stated, “It will be shocking if expansion doesn’t happen,” reflecting the growing consensus around the potential for new franchises.
As the situation develops, reactions from fans and stakeholders are anticipated, particularly in Seattle, where the absence of an NBA team has been felt for nearly two decades. “Vegas has become the league’s unofficial 31st city,” noted another source, highlighting the significance of this potential expansion.
Ultimately, the decision on expansion rests solely with the board of governors, and details remain unconfirmed. The outcome of this process could reshape the landscape of the NBA and influence future mock drafts significantly.
