The Phoenix Suns recently made headlines with a significant roster shake-up, opting to waive veteran forward Nassir Little and second-year guard EJ Liddell. This move leaves the Suns with an open roster spot and comes with considerable financial implications, given their already sky-high payroll.
Financial Implications and Roster Adjustment
The Suns currently boast a league-high payroll of $219 million, which puts them significantly above the "second apron" financial threshold. This position subjects them to numerous restrictions, such as the inability to aggregate salaries in trades, trade for more money than they send out, or use any version of the mid-level exception. Additionally, they cannot sign players from the buyout market whose initial salary exceeded the non-taxpayer mid-level exception. Despite these financial constraints, the Suns' management has demonstrated a keen willingness to make tough decisions as they continue to navigate the complexities of the current NBA salary cap landscape.
Nassir Little's Departure
Acquired as part of the Damian Lillard-Jrue Holiday blockbuster trade, Nassir Little's tenure with the Suns was short-lived. Over 45 games in his sole season with Phoenix, Little averaged modest numbers of 3.4 points and 1.7 rebounds. The Suns have decided to utilize the stretch provision in waiving him, spreading the remaining $21 million on his contract over several years. Little will receive $3 million annually from the Suns until 2032, a financial hit the organization seems willing to endure for the greater flexibility.
EJ Liddell's Short Stint
Second-year guard EJ Liddell also found himself on the list of waived players. Liddell was initially a second-round draft pick by the New Orleans Pelicans in 2022 but was sidelined for his entire rookie season due to an ACL tear during the Summer League. He made a modest return, playing only eight games last season while spending significant time in the G League to regain his form and fitness. Liddell's journey continued with a move to the Hawks as part of the Dejounte Murray deal before eventually landing with the Suns in exchange for David Roddy.
Future Prospects
With an open roster spot now available, the Suns have the opportunity to scout and sign emerging talent or veterans willing to accept minimum offers. Earlier this summer, they secured the services of Tyus Jones on a minimum contract, indicating a strategic approach to bolstering their roster without exacerbating financial liabilities.
The Suns' financial maneuvering and strategic roster adjustments highlight the complexities NBA teams face in maintaining competitive edge while adhering to stringent financial regulations. The decisions to waive Nassir Little and EJ Liddell underscore the challenging balancing act between talent acquisition and financial prudence.
As the season progresses, it will be interesting to see how the Suns capitalize on their open roster spot and manage their financial constraints to remain competitive in a highly challenging Western Conference.