The idea is the TE is an asset than the Suns may or may not use to get another player. They may not use any or all of it depending upon the LT. It would be important for the Suns to get a good young player plus picks to build upon. I believe a TE is good for a year. It allows the Suns flexibility to make other moves.
I'll admit I hadn't really thought much about the TE because it is awfully complicated to use. It is great for picking up guys being dumped for cap space, but the situation is pretty strange. It would be worth a lot more if it did not run out so quickly. I'd be interested in knowing if that is under discussion for the new CBA.