Suns Make Bold Moves, Waive Nassir Little and EJ Liddell
In a surprising move that underscores a commitment to financial and roster flexibility, the Phoenix Suns have waived veteran forward Nassir Little and second-year guard EJ Liddell. This decision creates an open roster spot for a team already operating under significant financial constraints.
With the highest payroll in the league, at an eye-watering $219 million, the Suns have surpassed the stringent "second apron" financial threshold. This places numerous limitations on their transactional capabilities, including 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 are restricted from signing players from the buyout market whose initial salary exceeded the non-taxpayer mid-level exception. These restrictions make every roster move critically important.
Nassir Little's Short Stint
Nassir Little, who joined the Suns as part of the blockbuster Damian Lillard-Jrue Holiday trade, had a brief and rather unremarkable tenure with Phoenix. Over 45 games in his sole season, Little averaged 3.4 points and 1.7 rebounds. Despite being a part of such a high-profile trade, he struggled to make a significant impact on the court.
The Suns will deploy the stretch provision in waiving Little, a financial maneuver that allows them to distribute his remaining $21 million contract over an extended period. Consequently, Little will receive $3 million annually from the Suns until 2032. This strategy helps to alleviate the immediate financial burden while still honoring the contractual commitments.
EJ Liddell's Bumpy Ride
Second-year guard EJ Liddell's journey to Phoenix has been tumultuous. Originally a second-round pick by the New Orleans Pelicans in 2022, Liddell's promising career hit a snag when he tore his ACL during the Summer League, sidelining him for his entire rookie season. In his comeback, Liddell played only eight games for the Pelicans last season, spending a significant amount of time in the G League to regain form and fitness.
Liddell's path took another turn when he moved from the Pelicans to the Hawks as part of the Dejounte Murray trade, and subsequently to the Suns in exchange for David Roddy. Despite these changes, Liddell has struggled to secure a stable role, leading to his release from the Suns.
Future Prospects
Earlier this summer, the Suns bolstered their backcourt by signing Tyus Jones on a minimum contract. This addition reflects the Suns' strategic approach to building a competitive team while navigating their financial limitations. With an open roster spot now available, the management has the opportunity to scout and sign emerging talent or experienced veterans willing to accept minimum offers.
The Suns' front office has showcased a willingness to make tough, calculated decisions to improve the team's long-term prospects. By waiving Little and Liddell, they have taken a significant step towards more financial flexibility, which could prove crucial as the season progresses.
As the team moves forward, the open roster spot presents an intriguing opportunity. Whether it will be filled by an unheralded young talent or a seasoned veteran ready to contribute on a minimum contract remains to be seen. One thing is certain: the Suns are navigating their financial challenges with deliberate and forward-thinking moves, laying the groundwork for sustained success in a highly competitive league.