In a strategic move underscored by financial constraints, the Phoenix Suns have waived veteran forward Nassir Little and second-year guard EJ Liddell. This decision not only opens up a valuable roster spot but also underscores the team's challenges in navigating the league's stringent financial thresholds.
Financial Pressures and Roster Moves
The Suns, boasting a league-high payroll of $219 million, find themselves exceeding the "second apron" - a significant financial benchmark that imposes stringent limitations. These include restrictions on aggregating salaries in trades, trading for more money than they send out, and utilizing any form of the mid-level exception. Additionally, the team is prohibited from signing players from the buyout market whose initial salary exceeded the non-taxpayer mid-level exception.
Nassir Little, who joined the Suns as part of the blockbuster Damian Lillard-Jrue Holiday trade, averaged 3.4 points and 1.7 rebounds over 45 games in his sole season with Phoenix. Despite his limited on-court production, Little's contract had three years and $21 million remaining, a commitment that the Suns have chosen to stretch. By deploying the stretch provision, Little will receive $3 million annually from the Suns until 2032, easing the immediate financial burden while allowing the team greater flexibility in the short term.
EJ Liddell's Short Stint
Second-year guard EJ Liddell, originally a second-round pick by the New Orleans Pelicans in 2022, has had a challenging start to his professional career. Liddell tore his ACL during the 2022 Summer League, sidelining him for his entire rookie season. Last season, he played just eight games for the Pelicans and spent considerable time in the G League to regain form and fitness.
Liddell's journey has been one marked by transitions. Following his time with the Pelicans, he was moved to the Atlanta Hawks as part of the Dejounte Murray deal. Subsequently, he was sent to the Suns in exchange for David Roddy. Despite the potential he showed during college, Liddell’s transition to the NBA has been hampered by injuries and the constant shuffle between teams.
Future Prospects and Management's Strategy
Earlier this summer, the Suns bolstered their roster by securing the services of Tyus Jones on a minimum contract. This move, alongside the recent waivers, indicates a strategy centered around maintaining financial flexibility while scouting emerging talent or veterans willing to accept minimum offers. The open roster spot now provides the Suns a valuable opportunity to scout and sign players who can contribute meaningfully without exacerbating their financial hindrances.
The Suns' management has consistently demonstrated a willingness to make tough decisions to align their financial commitments with the league’s regulations. This approach not only helps in managing the immediate salary cap implications but also aims to sustain competitive viability moving forward.
As the team progresses through these financial and roster adjustments, the focus remains on assembling a squad capable of competing at the highest levels while adhering to the financial constraints imposed by the league's regulations. The open roster spot could potentially be a game-changer, enabling the Suns to bring in high-impact talent that fits within their economic framework.