The Phoenix Suns' front office is making decisive moves ahead of the upcoming NBA season. In a surprising roster adjustment, the Suns have waived veteran forward Nassir Little and second-year guard EJ Liddell. The decision has left the Suns with a crucial open roster spot, providing flexibility and potential for future signings.
Suns Navigate Salary Cap Complexity
With a staggering payroll of $219 million, the Suns have the highest in the league. This financial commitment has pushed the team beyond the "second apron," a strict financial threshold that comes with several restrictive limitations. The Suns now face an array of constraints: they cannot aggregate salaries in trades, trade for more money than they send out, use any version of the mid-level exception, or sign players from the buyout market whose initial salary exceeded the non-taxpayer mid-level exception.
The Decision to Waive Nassir Little
Nassir Little arrived in Phoenix as part of the multi-team trade involving Damian Lillard and Jrue Holiday. During his sole season with the Suns, Little averaged 3.4 points and 1.7 rebounds over the course of 45 games. Despite his potential, the Suns opted to waive Little, a move that will deploy the stretch provision to manage the financial implications of his contract.
Little had three years and $21 million remaining on his contract, which will now be distributed over an extended period. As a result, Little will receive $3 million annually from the Suns until 2032, alleviating some of the financial burden on the team's payroll in the short term while providing Little with a steady income.
Challenges and Prospects for EJ Liddell
EJ Liddell, a second-year guard, was originally a second-round pick by the New Orleans Pelicans in 2022. Unfortunately, his rookie season was derailed by a torn ACL during the Summer League, sidelining him for the entire year. Liddell managed to appear in only eight games for the Pelicans last season, during which he spent a significant amount of time in the G League to regain his form and fitness.
Liddell's journey has been tumultuous. He moved from the Pelicans to the Atlanta Hawks as part of the deal for Dejounte Murray and was later traded to the Suns in exchange for David Roddy. Despite the setbacks, Liddell's determination to get back to top shape showcases his resilience, even as this latest news marks another twist in his professional journey.
Future Implications and Opportunities
Earlier this summer, the Suns secured the services of Tyus Jones on a minimum contract, highlighting their strategy of adding valuable players without further exacerbating their financial constraints. Now, with an open roster spot, the opportunity is ripe for scouting and signing emerging talent or veterans willing to accept minimum offers.
This flexibility could be pivotal for the Suns as they navigate a competitive season while balancing financial regulations. The willingness of the Suns' management to make tough decisions underscores their strategic approach to maintaining a strong and viable roster.
In conclusion, the waiving of Nassir Little and EJ Liddell is a testament to the intricate maneuvers required by NBA teams operating under stringent financial conditions. The Phoenix Suns, led by astute management, continue to navigate these challenges with a focus on maintaining their competitive edge while adhering to fiscal responsibilities.