In a series of moves that underscore the Phoenix Suns' commitment to roster flexibility and financial diligence, the team has waived veteran forward Nassir Little and second-year guard EJ Liddell. These decisions leave the Suns with an open roster spot, a crucial element for a team navigating an exceptionally high payroll.
Suns' Financial Landscape
The Phoenix Suns find themselves in a unique financial position, boasting a league-high payroll of $219 million. This substantial investment has pushed the team beyond the "second apron," a stringent financial threshold that imposes significant limitations on their operational flexibility. Among these constraints, the Suns are prohibited from aggregating salaries in trades and cannot trade for more money than they send out. Additionally, they cannot utilize any version of the mid-level exception nor sign players from the buyout market whose initial salary exceeded the non-taxpayer mid-level exception.
Waiving Nassir Little
Nassir Little's tenure with the Suns, though short-lived, was a direct result of the high-profile Damian Lillard-Jrue Holiday blockbuster trade. During his brief stint in Phoenix, Little averaged 3.4 points and 1.7 rebounds over 45 games. With three years and $21 million left on his contract, the Suns have opted to deploy the stretch provision. This financial maneuver spreads his remaining salary, ensuring Little receives $3 million annually until 2032. The decision to waive Little, despite acquiring him in a major trade, exemplifies the Suns' willingness to make tough decisions to align their roster with long-term strategic goals.
EJ Liddell's Brief Journey
EJ Liddell's path to the Suns was notably circuitous. Originally a second-round pick by the New Orleans Pelicans in 2022, Liddell's rookie season was derailed by a torn ACL during the Summer League. As a result, he spent his first year sidelined, followed by a season where he played only eight games for the Pelicans. Significant time in the G League was necessary for him to regain form and fitness. Liddell's journey then took him to the Atlanta Hawks as part of the Dejounte Murray deal, before eventually being traded to the Suns in exchange for David Roddy.
Future Opportunities
With the departure of Little and Liddell, the Suns now have an open roster spot. This vacancy opens a window for the team to scout and sign emerging talent or veteran players willing to accept minimum offers. Earlier this summer, the team secured the services of Tyus Jones on a minimum contract, indicating their strategic approach to filling roster spots economically while balancing the payroll cap.
The Suns' management, spearheaded by experienced front office personnel, continues to demonstrate a keen ability to navigate the complex financial landscape of the NBA. Their recent decisions reflect a broader strategy aimed at maintaining competitive performance while adhering to financial constraints. As the season progresses, it will be intriguing to see how the Suns leverage their open roster spot and continue to adapt their strategies both on and off the court.