How the NBA Waiver Wire Works
When a player is waived, they go through a 48-hour waiver period. During this time, any team can claim the player by assuming their contract. Waiver priority follows inverse order of record -- the worst teams get first dibs, giving struggling teams an additional path to adding talent.
If no team claims a player, they become an unrestricted free agent and can sign with any team for any amount. This is how most buyout players end up on contenders. Related: Buyout Market, 10-Day Contracts, and Hardship Exceptions.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does waiver priority work?
Teams are ordered by inverse record (worst record gets first priority). If a team claims a player, they assume the remaining contract. If multiple teams claim, the team with the worst record wins.
What is the waiver period?
Players must clear a 48-hour waiver period after being released. If unclaimed, they become free agents. The waiver period exists to give all teams a fair chance at acquiring talent.
Do teams often claim players on waivers?
It's relatively rare because teams must absorb the full remaining salary. Most waiver claims involve players with small contracts that provide immediate roster help.
What happens to a player's salary when waived?
The waiving team still owes the guaranteed portion of the contract. If the player signs elsewhere, the new salary offsets what the original team owes (called 'salary offset' or 'stretch provision').