The Phoenix Suns have made a strategic move in free agency, claiming former Los Angeles Lakers guard Jordan Goodwin off waivers, according to sources close to ESPN. This development adds another layer to the Suns’ roster construction as they prepare for a season where every addition matters. Goodwin, known for his relentless energy and defensive tenacity, was waived by the Lakers to create roster space for newly acquired guard Marcus Smart. While Goodwin’s tenure in Los Angeles was short-lived, his reputation as a hard-nosed, gritty player who thrives in high-pressure moments could make him an underrated asset for a Phoenix team that is seeking more depth, toughness, and backcourt versatility heading into the 2025-26 NBA season. For the Suns, who are striving to stay competitive in an ultra-talented Western Conference, a player like Goodwin represents the type of low-risk, high-reward acquisition that can pay dividends during the grind of an 82-game season.
Jordan Goodwin is no stranger to overcoming obstacles. His NBA journey has been anything but straightforward, carving his way through the G League, signing multiple short-term deals, and proving himself with his all-around skill set. At six-foot-three with a sturdy frame and high defensive IQ, Goodwin brings the kind of two-way play that coaches love to deploy off the bench. While he is not known for flashy scoring numbers, his ability to impact the game in subtle but meaningful ways sets him apart. He rebounds well for his size, can defend both guard positions effectively, and is capable of facilitating the offense when called upon. His defensive intensity, coupled with a willingness to do the dirty work—diving for loose balls, fighting through screens, and contesting every shot—has earned him a reputation as a glue guy who can help stabilize second units or complement star players on the floor.
The Lakers’ decision to waive Goodwin was largely a matter of timing and roster dynamics rather than a reflection of his talent. When Los Angeles orchestrated the trade to bring Marcus Smart to their roster, the front office was faced with difficult decisions about which players to retain. Smart, a former Defensive Player of the Year and a proven leader, naturally took priority, and that meant someone had to be let go. Goodwin, despite showing promise, became the odd man out in a guard-heavy rotation. Still, being claimed by Phoenix so quickly is a testament to the league-wide recognition of his value. Teams like the Suns understand that having a player with Goodwin’s mindset can tilt the balance in close games, especially during playoff battles where effort and toughness often decide outcomes.
For the Suns, Goodwin’s arrival comes at a time when depth is a critical concern. With a roster headlined by Kevin Durant, Devin Booker, and Bradley Beal, Phoenix’s core is built around star power. However, the success of championship-contending teams is often defined by the contributions of their role players. The Suns have learned this lesson the hard way, as injuries and inconsistent bench production have derailed their postseason runs in recent years. Adding someone like Goodwin, who can contribute in multiple ways without needing a high usage rate, gives coach Mike Budenholzer more options when managing rotations. Goodwin’s ability to guard the perimeter and disrupt opposing ball-handlers will also alleviate some of the defensive burden on Booker and Beal, both of whom have carried heavy offensive loads.
From a strategic perspective, Goodwin’s signing also aligns with the Suns’ broader goal of becoming a more balanced and defensively sound team. Last season, Phoenix ranked in the middle of the pack defensively, and their inability to consistently stop high-powered offenses in the playoffs was a glaring weakness. Goodwin’s defensive instincts, lateral quickness, and willingness to take on tough assignments can help address these deficiencies. He is the kind of player who can change the momentum of a game with a single defensive possession—whether by forcing a turnover, drawing a charge, or locking down an opposing guard during a critical stretch.
Offensively, Goodwin may not light up the scoreboard, but he is far from a liability. He is capable of knocking down open shots, particularly from mid-range, and has shown improvement as a three-point shooter. His unselfish approach to the game allows him to fit seamlessly alongside ball-dominant stars like Booker and Beal. When playing with the second unit, Goodwin can assume more of a playmaking role, using his vision and decision-making to facilitate ball movement and create opportunities for teammates. His basketball IQ and willingness to make the right play, rather than forcing shots or overextending his role, make him a valuable addition to any team aiming for cohesion.
Goodwin’s story also resonates with fans and teammates alike because of his work ethic and perseverance. Undrafted in 2021, he worked tirelessly to prove he belonged in the NBA, earning a spot with the Washington Wizards before making stops with the Denver Nuggets and eventually the Lakers. Each opportunity has been met with relentless effort and an eagerness to learn. This kind of mentality is contagious in a locker room, especially on a team like the Suns, where the focus is squarely on winning now. Veterans like Durant and Beal will undoubtedly appreciate having a teammate who brings such determination and grit to the table, reinforcing a culture of accountability and hustle.
For Phoenix, the acquisition of Goodwin also raises interesting questions about their backcourt rotation. With Booker and Beal locked in as the primary guards and players like Grayson Allen, Eric Gordon, and Royce O’Neale capable of logging minutes in the backcourt, Goodwin will have to fight for playing time. However, his defensive prowess gives him an edge over some of his teammates who are more offensively oriented. It’s likely that Budenholzer will experiment with lineups early in the season to see where Goodwin fits best, perhaps utilizing him in matchups where the Suns need a defensive stopper or a spark of energy off the bench. In a league where depth and versatility often determine success, having someone like Goodwin as a plug-and-play option could prove invaluable over the long season.
The timing of this move is also noteworthy because the Suns, like many other contenders, are carefully managing their roster flexibility and salary cap situation. With star players commanding significant contracts, adding affordable contributors like Goodwin becomes crucial. His contract is manageable, and his potential upside far outweighs the cost of claiming him off waivers. Should he excel in his role, Phoenix could even explore signing him to a longer-term deal, further solidifying their depth and continuity.
