Life without LeBron James is starting to improve for the Los Angeles Lakers. After a four-game skid, the Lakers are back on track after picking up Monday's 125-109 win over the San Antonio Spurs, marking the team's second of back-to-back victories.
A handful of Lakers stepped up in James' absence to deliver the 42nd win of the season, including rising two-way stud Jordan Goodwin.
The 26-year-old guard looked impressive in his third start of the 2024-25 campaign as fans continue to wonder what the future will hold for him. After all, L.A. must convert his two-way contract to a one-way deal either by the Apr. 13 deadline or before his eligible appearances run out if they want to use him in the playoffs.
Lakers News: JJ Redick Comments on Jordan Goodwin's Contract Status
Lakers fans have been wanting to see Goodwin rewarded for his recent play, especially after his latest performance. The former Saint Louis product scored 15 points while shooting 66.7% from the floor and 50.0% from deep, adding four rebounds, three assists, a trio of steals, and a block along the way.
With time ticking regarding a contract decision, Lakers head coach JJ Redick commented on Goodwin's uncertain future after Monday's win.
"It's very complicated because (Goodwin has) really earned the trust of the coaching staff," Redick said, per LakersNation's Daniel Starkland. "But this is unfortunately the nature of the two-way contracts and having a full roster. So again, it's something, similar to Trey (Jemison), we're just gonna manage."
Per @khobi_price, Jordan Goodwin only has around 7 games left on his two-way contract, so he asked JJ Redick how they will manage that considering he is part of the rotation:
— Daniel Starkand (@DStarkand) March 18, 2025
"It's very complicated because he's really earned the trust of the coaching staff. But this is…
Redick added that the Lakers "can't really afford" to leave Goodwin out of the rotation as injuries continue to add up. On top of James, Rui Hachimura has recently been sidelined with a knee injury while Maxi Kleber is still recovering from foot surgery. Even Trey Jemison missed Monday's contest with an illness.
Although part of the fanbase is eager to see Goodwin's contract converted into a standard deal, he still has a few more games of two-way eligibility left before the Lakers must make a decision. NBA salary cap expert Eric Pincus recently reported that the 26-year-old guard had 19 games left as a two-way player when he joined L.A. in February, meaning Redick & Co. can squeeze out five more "free" games.
As long as he keeps up the solid work, it's hard to imagine Goodwin not receiving the promotion he deserves. The Centreville, IL native has worked hard to provide the Lakers with reliable depth throughout the last two months, averaging 7.1 points, 4.1 rebounds, 1.2 assists, 1.1 steals, and .513/.447/.667 splits while playing over 21 minutes across 14 appearances.
Having said that, the Lakers must release a veteran player if they want to open up a roster spot for Goodwin. Cam Reddish and Alex Len are two vets who are in the mix to be cut, meaning it wouldn't be shocking if either is sent packing to promote the rising two-way force.
Goodwin will look to continue his ascent when the Lakers host the Denver Nuggets at crypto.com Arena on Wednesday at 10 p.m. ET, airing nationally on ESPN.