I just don't see 18 mil being the norm for players anymore, unless they are the likes of LBJ type superstars. 25% of the cap is 14.5 mil. I think the most we will see for "all-star caliber" players are around 16 mil; while the super stars get around 18-20 mil.
LMA will qualify (based as a 9yr veteran)for the starting salary of 30% of cap or about 17.5M, whichever is less, and also able to be 105% of his previous (15.756M). So the MINIMUM max he can start at is 16.54M. The maximum max is probably starting at 17.5.
I just don't see him getting max though. I love him to death; but he isn't "max player" salary potential. If he stays in Portland; he will still only be the #2 option. I think 16 mil is about as "Max" as he's gonna get. At least in this new CBA.
