Suns waive backup guard Elie Okobo

The Suns have waived backup guard Elie Okobo, according to John Hollinger of The Athletic.

The 31st overall pick in the 2018 draft, Okobo spent two years in Phoenix, appearing in a total of 108 games. He averaged 4.8 points and 2.2 assists in 15.5 minutes per contest during those two seasons.

Okobo became expendable as a result of Cameron Payne‘s strong play during the summer resumption and the Suns’ offseason backcourt overhaul. Chris Paul, E’Twaun Moore, and Langston Galloway are joining Devin Booker and Payne.

Okobo’s $1.66M salary for the 2020-21 season would have become guaranteed if he remained under contract through this Thursday. By waiving him, the Suns won’t be on the hook for any of that money. Okobo, meanwhile, will become an unrestricted free agent if he goes unclaimed.