The Phoenix Suns have recently shaken up their roster by waiving veteran forward Nassir Little and second-year guard EJ Liddell. This strategic decision leaves the Suns with an open roster spot, providing flexibility for future acquisitions.
Financial Implications
The Suns are navigating a complex financial landscape, with a league-high payroll of $219 million. Exceeding the "second apron," a significant financial threshold, the team faces multiple limitations. They are restricted from aggregating salaries in trades, cannot trade for more money than they send out, and are barred from using 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.
Waiving Nassir Little comes with a specific financial maneuver. Acquired as part of the blockbuster trade involving Damian Lillard and Jrue Holiday, Little had three years and $21 million left on his contract. The Suns will implement the stretch provision, paying Little $3 million annually until 2032. This move helps relieve some immediate financial pressure while keeping options open for the team's roster.
Performance and Trade Details
Nassir Little, during his lone season with Phoenix, averaged 3.4 points and 1.7 rebounds over 45 games. His journey to the Suns began with a high-profile trade and ended with the team opting to part ways. Meanwhile, EJ Liddell's path has been rife with challenges since being drafted in the second round by the New Orleans Pelicans in 2022. A torn ACL during the Summer League sidelined him for his entire rookie season. Last season, Liddell managed to play only eight games for the Pelicans before spending significant time in the G League to regain form and fitness.
Liddell's journey from the Pelicans to the Suns involved multiple trades. Initially moved to the Atlanta Hawks as part of the Dejounte Murray deal, he was later traded to the Suns in exchange for David Roddy. Despite the twists and turns, Liddell had yet to carve out a significant role in the NBA, culminating in his recent waiver.
Open Roster Spot
The decision to waive both players has left the Suns with an open roster spot. Earlier this summer, the team secured the services of Tyus Jones on a minimum contract, showcasing a strategic approach to filling the roster with talent willing to accept minimum offers. The available spot now allows the Suns to scout and sign emerging talent or veterans who are amenable to joining under similar terms.
The management’s willingness to make tough decisions reflects a commitment to maintaining a competitive edge, even under stringent financial constraints. The current state of the roster and the open spot provide an opportunity for creative solutions to bolster the team's chances in the upcoming season.
As the Suns navigate these changes, the basketball world will be watching how they leverage their financial strategies and roster flexibility to remain contenders in a highly competitive league.