NBA Free Agency 2010: Top Players Available for the Midlevel Exception

The Bulls, Nets, Knicks, and Heat might have a boat load of cap space to spend on top players this season.

But not every team has the same luxury to spend on top-tier players like LeBron, Bosh, and Wade.

For teams with limited or no cap space looking to spice things up during free agency, the mid-level exception can be used.

The exception allows a team over the cap to sign a player to the average league salary. The average will be around $5.8 million a year for the upcoming season.

Top contenders with no room to make moves could find themselves signing a player to it. Look for teams like the Lakers, Magic, Nuggets, or Spurs to use such a move.

Without further ado, here are the top players available at the mid-level exception level this free agency period.

Kyle Korver

The Utah sharpshooter would be a great addition to any team looking for a mid-level shooting guard in this year's free-agent class.

Korver has seen his minutes dwindle, but is still considered one of the top shooters in the league.

At mid-level exception level, Korver would be a steal for a team in need of shooting.

Portland has been rumored to be looking at the Utah guard. If Orlando loses J.J. Redick, don't be surprised if the team tries to acquire Korver as compensation.

Although he doesn't provide much besides his shooting ability, Korver would provide great value for his services.

Nate Robinson

Robinson's resurgence in the playoffs bolstered the point guard's free agent status.

When he was on the Knicks' bench, it seemed Robinson was finished. Now, he's considered one of the best point guards in this free agency class, although it isn't a deep class at the position.

At a mid-level exception level, Robinson could provide similar value that he offered to the Celtics this year.

It could work out, as it's still unknown whether Robinson can be effective starting at point for a team.

I wouldn't be surprised to see Boston use the exception on him. If he can provide the same spark he provided in the playoffs, I'm sure others will give him a look also.

Travis Outlaw

Outlaw looked he could make a splash in this year's free agent class, but a down year caused his stock to falter as this season progressed.

Although he's shown steady progress, his development might have peaked after six years already in the league. His numbers aren't eye-popping (9.1 points per game).

Outlaw has always been a steady performer throughout his career, but was expected to do more.

In this year's free agency class, expect teams looking for a role playing-scorer. Outlaw still has some lapses on defenses, but can surely provide on the offensive end.

Ray Allen

At almost 35, Allen is an aging player who's best days are behind him.

He'll undoubtedly take a pay cut after earning almost $19.6 million last season for the Celtics.

With that said, Allen can still provide steady and clutch shooting for a contender.

The two teams I could especially see go after Allen are the Utah Jazz and Cleveland Cavaliers.

The Jazz will probably lose Kyle Korver and Allen could take his place.

The Cavs have never really had a true sharp-shooter. With or without LeBron, Allen would be a solid contributor for Cleveland.

Boston could also sign him with the exception. Allen would be more than happy than to return to his current team.

Shaquille O'Neal

Shaquille O'Neal isn't nearly the same player who used to be now that he's 38.

Although he's not as dominating as he used to be, O'Neal provides good value for a team in need of a backup center.

He's definitely lost a step, but O'Neal offers somewhat solid post defense and some offensive outbursts.

As a shell of his former self, Shaq shouldn't expect to garner too many offers. A mid-level exception is about the best he could do.

I wouldn't be surprised to see Cleveland ask for his services back at the exception. Another possibility could be a homecoming in Orlando to back up center Dwight Howard.

Mike Miller

While Miller isn't the same player he used to be, his shooting could still draw some interest from some contenders.

Supposedly losing has taken it's toll on the guard. He said he will only play for one of the top teams in the league.

The statement might make Miller seem offputting, but with his skill-set, teams will be sure to take a chance on the guard.

The Celtics will try their best to get Allen back, but if they don't, it wouldn't be a surprise to see Miller head to Boston. Although he wouldn't provide nearly as much as Allen, he would provide good value as a mid-level pick up.