NBA Trade News: Phoenix Suns Reunite with $2.35 Million Los Angeles Lakers Star in Bold Waiver Steal to Bolster Championship Backcourt

The Phoenix Suns have made a calculated move by claiming guard Jordan Goodwin off waivers, reuniting with the high-energy player they previously included in the 2023 Bradley Beal trade.

It’s a savvy, low-cost acquisition that bolsters the team’s defensive depth and adds familiarity to their evolving backcourt.

Jordan Goodwin’s Winding Path

Jordan Goodwin, the 26-year-old guard, has bounced between multiple teams over the last two seasons:- He began his NBA career with the Washington Wizards, later joined the Memphis Grizzlies, and landed in Phoenix in 2023 as part of the Beal deal.- Goodwin appeared in 40 games for the Phoenix Suns in the 2023-24 season before being traded to Memphis.

He eventually signed a two-way deal with the Lakers in early 2025, which was later converted to a standard contract.- With the Lakers, he logged 29 appearances, averaging 5.6 points, 3.9 rebounds, and 1.4 assists in just under 19 minutes per game. He also shot a respectable 43.8% from the field and 38.2% from three—solid efficiency for a role player.

Lakers’ Cap Crunch Forced His Exit

Jordan Goodwin’s release from Los Angeles wasn’t a reflection of his performance, but rather the cost of roster management:- After signing Marcus Smart with their bi-annual exception, the Lakers were forced to dip below the first salary cap apron, which required trimming non-guaranteed contracts.

- As a result, both Goodwin and Shake Milton were waived, even though Goodwin was a reliable presence off the bench in JJ Redick’s rotation.- Attempts to restructure the roster via trade fell through, leaving Jordan Goodwin as a cap casualty.

Why Phoenix Jumped at the Chance

Bringing Goodwin back wasn’t just sentimental—it was strategic:- His tenacious defense and team-first mentality are exactly what the Phoenix Suns have prioritized this offseason.- With a retooled backcourt featuring Devin Booker, Jalen Green, and Dillon Brooks, Goodwin provides insurance and hard-nosed depth.- His contract is extremely team-friendly—$2.35 million with only $25,000 guaranteed until January 2026—allowing Phoenix flexibility and low-risk upside.

What Jordan Goodwin Brings to the Table

- Elite hustle and perimeter defense, helping fill a void that’s long hampered the Phoenix Suns’ title aspirations.- Positional versatility, capable of switching between guard roles, disrupting opposing ball-handlers, and pushing the pace.- A blue-collar work ethic—diving for loose balls, fighting for rebounds, and never taking possessions off—that coaches and teammates consistently praise.Jordan Goodwin’s NBA story isn’t flashy—but it’s exactly what championship rosters need. In a league dominated by superstars, he stands out as a throwback grinder: underappreciated, undervalued, and always ready. His $25K guarantee until January adds drama: every game is a chance to earn a full-season role.Fans in Phoenix who value heart and hustle over highlights may find a new favorite in Goodwin. He won’t be the face of the franchise, but he just might be the glue.Also read: Jalen Green Breaks Silence on Houston Rockets - Phoenix Suns Trade: “I Get It, Bro”For the Phoenix Suns, this is more than a waiver wire pickup—it’s a culture play. If Jordan Goodwin sticks, expect his effort and edge to quietly shape the identity of a team with championship ambitions.