On June 19, salary expert Bobby Marks compiled the tax payments and final records of the eight NBA teams that paid luxury taxes this season.
1. Warriors: $176.9 million Lost in the play-in tournament to the Kings, missing the playoffs
2. Clippers: $142.4 million Eliminated in the first round by the Mavericks
3. Suns: $68.2 million Swept in the first round by the Timberwolves
4. Bucks: $52.5 million Lost in the first round to the Pacers (Giannis Antetokounmpo injured)
5. Celtics: $43.8 million NBA Champions
6. Nuggets: $20.2 million Eliminated in the second round by the Timberwolves
7. Heat: $15.7 million Eliminated in the first round by the Celtics
8. Lakers: $6.9 million Swept in the first round by the Nuggets
The Warriors spent the most but missed the playoffs. However, they will be rid of Klay Thompson’s unfavorable contract next season. Additionally, the Timberwolves, who eliminated two tax-paying teams, will become a new luxury tax team next season.