One of the more exciting stories of the 2024-25 Los Angeles Lakers season was the emergence of undersized guard Jordan Goodwin. What made it such an exciting fit is the edge and energy Goodwin brought off the bench. The matchup didn't matter; the same level of intensity was going to be brought each and every game. Fans could easily see the impact Goodwin had on the rest of the Laker lineup whenever he stepped on the floor. With this in mind, it is a bit of a surprise that the organization has decided to turn the page.
Goodwin was placed on waivers to make room for the newly signed Marcus Smart. The former Boston Celtics stalwart is an undeniably fun addition. If Smart can turn back the clock just a bit, the Los Angeles bench will be far better. The Lakers need a guard capable of matching up with the opposing team's best guard and to bring the level of defensive intensity that has defined Smart's career. However, it is still frustrating to see the team lose Goodwin, considering what the guard meant to the team.
Former Lakers Guard Jordan Goodwin Finds New Landing Spot
The Phoenix Suns have claimed former Lakers guard Jordan Goodwin off free agency waivers, sources tell ESPN. Goodwin, waived by the Lakers to create roster space for Marcus Smart, is a gritty, upside pickup for the Suns backcourt. pic.twitter.com/SIMQXztpNi
— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) July 23, 2025
Goodwin wasted no time finding a new landing spot with the Phoenix Suns, claiming the undersized defender. Already, the Suns have parted ways with Bradley Beal and Kevin Durant in the 2025 offseason. Devin Booker has remained with the organization, offering a hint of hope for the future. Still, Goodwin isn't exactly landing in a better situation. The Suns are likely going to be contending for a top draft pick, not even expected to contend for a play-in spot.
For the Lakers, it is a frustrating move, but one that does give the franchise a chance to find an upgrade. Smart is still only thirty-one and could have productive seasons ahead in the right fit. With Luka, LeBron James, and Austin Reaves all available as shot creators, the biggest trait the Lakers need at the guard position is defensive intensity and the ability to help cover up for Luka and Reaves, who aren't consistently locking down anyone of note.
Trading Smart for Goodwin is an unquestionably upgrade, but one the team didn't have to make. It is easy to argue that Goodwin and Smart should both be on the roster heading into the 2025-26 season. Regardless, the addition of the former Boston star is a fun wrinkle in what has been a quiet offseason.