The Phoenix Suns have made a bold roster move, waiving veteran forward Nassir Little and second-year guard EJ Liddell. This decision has left an open roster spot that the Suns can use to scout and sign emerging talent or veterans willing to accept minimum offers.
With a league-high payroll of $219 million, the Suns are navigating financial constraints, notably exceeding the "second apron" threshold. This financial checkpoint imposes significant limitations, including an inability to aggregate salaries in trades, trade for more money than they send out, or use any version of the mid-level exception. Additionally, the Suns are unable to sign players from the buyout market whose initial salary exceeded the non-taxpayer mid-level exception.
The Financial Implications of Waiving Nassir Little
Nassir Little was initially acquired as part of the Damian Lillard-Jrue Holiday blockbuster trade. In his sole season with Phoenix, Little averaged 3.4 points and 1.7 rebounds over 45 games. Despite these modest numbers, Little's contract had significant financial implications for the Suns. He had three years and $21 million left on his contract, prompting the team to deploy the stretch provision in waiving him. Consequently, Little will receive $3 million annually from the Suns until 2032.
EJ Liddell's Short Stint with the Suns
Second-year guard EJ Liddell has also been released as part of the Suns' roster adjustments. Originally a second-round pick by the New Orleans Pelicans in 2022, Liddell's career has been hampered by injuries. He tore his ACL during the Summer League in 2022, sidelining him for his entire rookie season. Last season, Liddell played only eight games for the Pelicans and spent significant time in the G League to regain his form and fitness.
Liddell's journey to Phoenix included a few stops along the way. After moving from the Pelicans to the Atlanta Hawks as part of the Dejounte Murray deal, Liddell was then sent to the Suns in exchange for David Roddy. Unfortunately, his time in Phoenix has come to an abrupt end as the team makes tough decisions to navigate their financial constraints.
Strategic Moves and Future Prospects
Earlier this summer, the Suns secured the services of Tyus Jones on a minimum contract. This strategic move reflects the Suns' management's willingness to make difficult decisions to balance the team's financial realities with on-court competitiveness. The open roster spot now provides the Suns with an opportunity to scout and sign new talent, whether emerging players or seasoned veterans willing to accept minimum offers.
The decision to waive Little and Liddell demonstrates the Suns' commitment to optimizing their roster within the constraints imposed by their substantial payroll. The stretch provision used in Little's case is a clear indication of the financial acumen at play within the Suns' management. While some fans may question the loss of potential upside from players like Liddell, the open roster spot allows the team to remain flexible and agile in their pursuit of talent.
As the Suns move forward, they will likely continue to make strategic decisions that reflect their high payroll and exceed the second apron threshold. The team's approach, characterized by a blend of financial prudence and on-court aspirations, sets them up for a dynamic season ahead.
Only time will tell how these financial decisions will impact the Suns' performance as they strive to remain competitive in a demanding league. However, one thing is clear: the Phoenix Suns are not shying away from making the tough calls necessary to balance their books while aiming for success. Their actions serve as a testament to their strategic vision and commitment to building a competitive roster within the financial confines of the modern NBA.