5 Games Left: Lakers Must Decide on Jordan Goodwin Future

Lakers Face a Crucial Decision on Jordan Goodwin Future

As the Los Angeles Lakers head into the final stretch of the regular season, they find themselves facing a significant roster decision regarding Jordan Goodwin. The 26-year-old guard has emerged as a surprising asset for the Lakers this season, proving to be a valuable contributor despite initially joining the team on a two-way contract. However, with only five games of eligibility left for Goodwin under his current deal, the Lakers must decide whether to convert his contract to a standard deal or let him go.

Goodwin, who was signed to a two-way contract after the February 6 trade deadline, has quickly earned a place in the rotation, playing key minutes and contributing significantly to the Lakers’ success. However, the rules of the NBA’s two-way contract limit Goodwin to just 19 games with the team, and after playing his 14th game, the Lakers have just five more games in which they can utilize him under this contract. This presents the Lakers with an urgent decision: whether to convert Goodwin to a standard NBA contract before he reaches his eligibility limit, or to let him finish the season under his current deal and potentially lose him in the process.

Why the Lakers Should Keep Jordan Goodwin

The question on many fans’ minds is whether the Lakers should convert Goodwin’s contract sooner rather than later. Jovan Buha, a reporter for The Athletic, discussed this dilemma on his podcast, noting that while the Lakers could theoretically wait until Goodwin has reached the 19-game limit and then convert him to a standard contract, this may not be the most prudent decision. Buha emphasized that Goodwin’s performances have been too impressive for the Lakers to wait.

“Whatever the savings are, it’s not going to be that much compared to converting him after his two-way contract has exceeded its games, and I think it’s pivotal for the Lakers not to overthink this,” Buha explained. “This dude has been playing some remarkable basketball. The second he has played his maximum amount of games, he should be converted.”

Given that the Lakers are in the midst of a playoff push, it’s essential for them to solidify their roster and ensure they have as much continuity as possible. Goodwin has been a significant part of their rotation, and taking the risk of losing him would seem unwise at this stage. Buha suggested that the Lakers should not hesitate and should convert Goodwin’s contract as soon as his eligibility runs out.

Lakers’ Options for Converting Goodwin’s Contract

The Lakers are currently in a strong position to make this decision. With a limited number of games remaining in the regular season, they need to assess whether Goodwin’s impact outweighs the financial benefits of keeping him on a two-way contract for just a few more weeks. It seems highly likely that the Lakers will convert Goodwin to a standard contract sooner rather than later, as head coach Darvin Ham has been impressed by his play, and the player’s contributions to the team are clear.

In order to free up a roster spot for Goodwin, the Lakers may need to waive one of their current players. Reports suggest that Cam Reddish or Alex Len could be on the chopping block to make room for Goodwin. Reddish, who has shown flashes of potential but has struggled to earn consistent minutes this season, could be the most likely candidate to be waived. Likewise, Alex Len, a center who has seen limited action for the Lakers, may also be moved to accommodate Goodwin’s promotion.

Jordan Goodwin’s Impressive Contributions to the Lakers

The Los Angeles Lakers have discovered a hidden gem among their two-way players this season by signing guard Jordan Goodwin

Since joining the Lakers, Goodwin has proven that he belongs on an NBA roster. Over 14 games, Goodwin has averaged 7.1 points, 4.1 rebounds, and 1.2 assists in 21.1 minutes per game. His ability to contribute on both ends of the floor has made him a valuable asset, and he’s gained praise from both coaches and teammates alike.

Goodwin’s energy and versatility have been especially valuable to the Lakers as they look to solidify their playoff rotation. His defensive prowess, ability to guard multiple positions, and his solid rebounding have made him a reliable option for the team. Moreover, his offensive contributions—particularly his scoring and playmaking—have provided the Lakers with additional depth, which is crucial in their bid for playoff success.

“He’s too good,” said Buha, underscoring how essential Goodwin has been to the Lakers’ lineup. “Whatever the savings are, it’s not going to be that much compared to converting him after his two-way contract has exceeded its games, and I think it’s pivotal for the Lakers not to overthink this.”

Lakers’ Long-Term Plans for Jordan Goodwin

Looking ahead, Buha suggests that the Lakers should consider signing Goodwin to a multi-year contract to secure his services for the long term. Given that Goodwin has demonstrated the ability to play at a high level, it would make sense for the Lakers to lock him in before he becomes a free agent.

“I think they should sign him to a 3 or 4-year deal and just get him as cheaply as possible,” Buha recommended. “It would be a veteran minimum contract. I think, more likely than not, he just signs a multi-year deal with the Lakers.”

Goodwin, a four-year NBA veteran, has a career average of 6.5 points, 3.8 rebounds, and 2.5 assists across 135 games played with Washington, Phoenix, Memphis, and now Los Angeles. His experience and contributions over the course of his career make him a solid option for the Lakers, and locking him up for the future would provide the team with valuable depth moving forward.

How Goodwin’s Future Fits Into the Lakers’ Plans

As the Lakers aim to make a deep run in the playoffs, the team’s roster decisions will play a significant role in their overall success. Converting Jordan Goodwin’s two-way contract to a standard deal would be a smart move for the team, as he has proven himself to be a reliable and impactful player. By locking him in, the Lakers would solidify their rotation and provide themselves with additional depth as they push toward the postseason.

With just five games left of eligibility under Goodwin’s current contract, the Lakers must act swiftly. The decision to promote him to a standard deal may come down to timing, but it seems clear that Goodwin’s role with the team will only grow from here. Whether the Lakers make him a permanent part of their roster for the rest of the season or beyond, Goodwin has shown that he has the potential to be a key contributor for the team in their championship chase.

Conclusion: Lakers’ Path Forward with Jordan Goodwin

Lakers News: JJ Redick Comments on Jordan Goodwin Dilemma –

The Lakers’ decision on Jordan Goodwin is one that could have significant implications for the team’s immediate and long-term future. With the regular season winding down and the playoffs fast approaching, the Lakers need to ensure they have the right pieces in place to make a serious run for the title. Goodwin’s impressive performances over the past few weeks have earned him a spot in the rotation, and it seems clear that the Lakers must act quickly to secure him for the rest of the season and beyond.

As the Lakers prepare for their final stretch of games, converting Goodwin to a standard contract would be a wise decision. The team cannot afford to risk losing a player who has shown such promise, and securing his future with the Lakers could prove to be a key move in their quest for championship glory.