Suns' Roster Moves Create Flexibility Amid Financial Constraints
The Phoenix Suns have made significant adjustments to their roster, waiving veteran forward Nassir Little and second-year guard EJ Liddell, an action that opens up a crucial roster spot while navigating the complexities of their financial situation.
As the team with the league's highest payroll at $219 million, the Suns find themselves exceeding the NBA's "second apron"—a stringent financial threshold that imposes several limitations. These restrictions include prohibitions on aggregating salaries in trades, trading for more money than they send out, and utilizing any version of the mid-level exception. Additionally, the Suns are unable to sign players from the buyout market whose initial salary exceeded the non-taxpayer mid-level exception.
Nassir Little, acquired as part of the blockbuster trade involving Damian Lillard and Jrue Holiday, was among the notable departures. Little's stint with the Suns was brief, averaging 3.4 points and 1.7 rebounds over 45 games in his only season with the team. The Suns are implementing the stretch provision to waive Little, who had three years and $21 million remaining on his contract. As a result, Little will receive $3 million annually from the Suns until 2032.
Meanwhile, EJ Liddell's journey has been anything but smooth. Originally a second-round pick by the New Orleans Pelicans in 2022, Liddell's rookie season was derailed by a torn ACL during the Summer League, sidelining him for the entire year. Having played only eight games for the Pelicans last season, Liddell spent a significant amount of time in the G League to regain his form and fitness. He moved from the Pelicans to the Hawks as part of the deal involving Dejounte Murray, before being traded to the Suns in exchange for David Roddy.
Earlier this summer, the Suns secured the services of Tyus Jones on a minimum contract. With an open roster spot now available, the Suns are in a position to scout and sign emerging talent or veterans willing to accept minimum offers. This flexibility is crucial for a team facing stringent financial constraints and looking to bolster their roster depth while remaining compliant with league regulations.
The roster changes underline the Suns' management's willingness to make tough decisions. Balancing a competitive team on the court with the financial realities of the current NBA landscape, the Suns continue to strategize for both immediate performance and long-term sustainability.
As the season progresses, it will be intriguing to see how the Suns utilize their open roster spot and navigate their financial limitations. These moves not only shape the team's present but potentially their future, aiming to maintain a competitive edge while adhering to fiscal responsibilities.