Roster Changes: Suns Waive Nassir Little and EJ Liddell
The Phoenix Suns, amid financial strategizing and positioning, have made a significant roster adjustment by waiving veteran forward Nassir Little and second-year guard EJ Liddell. This decisive move not only opens up an invaluable roster spot but also underscores the franchise’s aggressive fiscal management as they grapple with a league-high payroll of $219 million and the complications of exceeding the NBA’s "second apron."
Financial Maneuvering Amid Salary Cap Constraints
The Suns’ payroll has surpassed crucial financial thresholds, consequently imposing substantial limitations on their operations. These constraints include prohibitions on aggregating salaries in trades, trading for more money than they send out, and utilizing any version of the mid-level exception. Furthermore, Phoenix cannot sign players from the buyout market whose initial salary exceeded the non-taxpayer mid-level exception.
In this context, the decision to waive Nassir Little is particularly noteworthy. Acquired as part of the Damian Lillard-Jrue Holiday blockbuster trade, Little's tenure with the Suns was marked by modest contributions, averaging just 3.4 points and 1.7 rebounds over 45 games. The Suns will partially alleviate his financial burden through the stretch provision, spreading his remaining $21 million contract over several years. As a result, Little will receive $3 million annually until 2032.
A Broader Roster Strategy
Additionally, the release of EJ Liddell, a second-year guard with a history of injuries, further signals Phoenix’s strategic maneuvers. Originally a second-round pick by the New Orleans Pelicans in 2022, Liddell’s career has been hindered by an ACL tear during the Summer League, which sidelined him for his entire rookie season. He appeared in only eight games last season and spent significant time in the G League to regain his form. Liddell eventually moved to the Suns from the Atlanta Hawks in exchange for David Roddy.
By waiving these players, the Suns demonstrate their commitment to making difficult decisions necessary for bolstering their roster flexibility and financial health. This open roster spot now provides a unique opportunity for the franchise to scout and potentially sign emerging talent or seasoned veterans willing to accept minimum offers. Earlier this summer, the Suns precisely followed this approach by securing Tyus Jones on a minimum contract.
Looking Ahead
While the Suns’ immediate financial constraints are formidable, their management’s willingness to adjust and adapt is noteworthy. With a roster spot now open, the team can strategically look for talent that fits both their competitive aspirations and fiscal prudence. By making such calculated moves, Phoenix remains poised to navigate the complexities of salary cap management while still striving for on-court success.
As the season progresses, the Suns' flexibility in player acquisition will be a focal point. The franchise's approach could set a precedent for other teams maneuvering within the tight financial confines of the NBA’s evolving salary cap landscape.
Ultimately, the Suns' recent roster decisions underscore a broader strategy of financial and competitive recalibration, charting a course that balances the pressures of immediate performance with the foresight necessary for sustained success.