The Phoenix Suns have made significant roster adjustments by waiving veteran forward Nassir Little and second-year guard EJ Liddell, opening up a roster spot as they navigate stringent financial constraints. This move underscores the Suns' strategic shift as they look to optimize their roster amid a league-high payroll of $219 million and the limitations of the NBA's "second apron" rules.
Financial Constraints and Roster Implications
The Suns’ financial landscape is tightly regulated due to their payroll exceeding the second apron threshold, which imposes several critical restrictions. These include prohibitions on aggregating salaries in trades, trading for more money than they send out, using any version of the mid-level exception, or signing buyout market players whose initial salary exceeded the non-taxpayer mid-level exception.
Nassir Little, who was acquired in the blockbuster trade involving Damian Lillard and Jrue Holiday, found his tenure with the Suns cut short. In his sole season with Phoenix, Little averaged 3.4 points and 1.7 rebounds over 45 games. Despite the brevity of his stay, the Suns will deploy the stretch provision in his waiving, spreading out the remaining $21 million on his contract over several years. Consequently, Little will receive $3 million annually from the Suns until 2032.
A Closer Look at the Players Waived
EJ Liddell’s journey in the NBA has been fraught with obstacles. Originally a second-round pick by the New Orleans Pelicans in 2022, Liddell suffered an ACL tear during the Summer League, sidelining him for his entire rookie season. He played only eight games for the Pelicans last season, spending significant time in the G League to regain his form and fitness. Liddell’s brief stint with the Suns followed his involvement in trades that moved him from the Pelicans to the Hawks as part of the Dejounte Murray deal, and then to the Suns in exchange for David Roddy.
These waivers reflect the Suns' strategy of keeping flexibility within their roster, especially under harsh financial constraints. With an open roster spot, the Suns now have the opportunity to scout and sign emerging talent or veterans willing to accept minimum offers. Management’s recent signing of Tyus Jones on a minimum contract exemplifies their ability to make shrewd additions despite financial limitations.
Strategic Decisions Ahead
The Suns' willingness to make tough decisions is apparent as they juggle their roster while adhering to the NBA's financial rules. On the surface, waiving Little and Liddell seems to be a significant cut, but it’s a calculated move to maintain flexibility and competitiveness. While the team boasts star power, these adjustments will allow them to explore additional talent that aligns with their financial and strategic goals.
As the season progresses, the Suns are expected to be vigilant in exploring opportunities to enhance their roster, balancing financial prudence with the pursuit of on-court success. The open roster spot provides a crucial opportunity to strengthen the team, whether through the development of young talent or the acquisition of seasoned veterans ready to contribute immediately.