The Phoenix Suns have made significant roster adjustments by waiving veteran forward Nassir Little and second-year guard EJ Liddell, creating an open roster spot and addressing salary cap concerns. These moves are part of a broader strategy to remain competitive while managing financial constraints.
Suns Waive Nassir Little and EJ Liddell
Nassir Little, who joined the Suns as part of the high-profile Damian Lillard-Jrue Holiday trade, departs after a modest stint with the team. In his sole season with Phoenix, Little averaged 3.4 points and 1.7 rebounds over 45 games. Despite his limited on-court impact, the decision to waive Little comes with financial implications. He had three years and $21 million left on his contract, and the Suns will utilize the stretch provision, paying Little $3 million annually until 2032.
Meanwhile, EJ Liddell’s journey has been plagued by injuries. The second-year guard was originally a second-round pick by the New Orleans Pelicans in 2022 but suffered an ACL tear during the Summer League that sidelined him for his entire rookie season. Last season, he played only eight games for the Pelicans before spending significant time in the G League to regain his form. Liddell's brief stopovers with the Hawks and Suns have now come to an end, opening a path for him to find a more stable role elsewhere.
Financial Hurdles and Strategic Adjustments
The financial complexities surrounding the Suns’ current roster management cannot be overstated. With a league-high payroll of $219 million, the Suns are navigating the perilous waters of the NBA’s financial system by exceeding the "second apron." This stringent financial threshold imposes several limitations, including the inability to aggregate salaries in trades, restrictions on trading for more money than they send out, and being barred from using any version of the mid-level exception. Furthermore, the Suns are unable to sign players from the buyout market whose initial salary exceeded the non-taxpayer mid-level exception.
These restrictions necessitate strategic maneuvering by the Suns' management. By waiving Little and Liddell, the Suns not only create space to scout and sign emerging talent or veterans willing to accept minimum offers, but they also demonstrate a willingness to make difficult decisions in pursuit of financial flexibility and competitive balance.
Looking Forward
Despite these challenges, the Suns have shown some resourcefulness in their recent acquisitions. Earlier this summer, the team brought in Tyus Jones on a minimum contract, a move that underscores their strategic targeting of valuable players who can contribute without breaking the bank. With an open roster spot, the Suns are now positioned to add another key piece to their puzzle, whether it be an up-and-coming player from the G League or a seasoned veteran eager for a championship run.
The Suns' management continues to navigate a delicate balance between maintaining a competitive roster and adhering to the NBA's complex financial regulations. Their recent decisions reflect a broader understanding of the need to adapt and pivot in response to evolving circumstances. As the season progresses, it will be interesting to see how the Suns leverage their open roster spot and navigate their financial constraints to remain contenders in a highly competitive league.