The Los Angeles Lakers have announced that they have waived guard Jordan Goodwin, making him an unrestricted free agent.
His release comes as part of the team’s ongoing adjustments to their roster ahead of the upcoming NBA season, as they continue to evaluate and refine their lineup to optimize both depth and performance.
Goodwin, who joined the Lakers after showing promise during previous stints with other NBA teams and their G-League affiliates, has had moments where his defensive skills and energy stood out.
Known for his hustle on both ends of the floor, Goodwin has often been praised for his tenacity and effort, despite not always receiving consistent playing time at the NBA level.
His ability to contribute on defense, combined with flashes of playmaking and scoring, made him an intriguing piece for the Lakers during their roster evaluation process.
The decision to waive Goodwin may reflect the Lakers’ need to open up roster spots or make room for players who better fit their current system or long-term plans.
As the team continues to build around its core stars, like LeBron James and Anthony Davis, roster moves like this are often necessary to create flexibility, particularly with the competitive nature of the Western Conference.
While Goodwin had hoped to make an impact with the Lakers, the team has opted to move in a different direction as it finalizes its roster for the 2024-2025 season.
Goodwin’s next move remains uncertain, but given his defensive abilities and potential, it wouldn’t be surprising to see him picked up by another NBA team looking for backcourt depth or added perimeter defense.
At just 25 years old, he still has room for growth, and his time in the G-League and NBA will likely make him a candidate for teams searching for a high-energy guard who can bring defensive intensity and versatility off the bench.
This decision by the Lakers marks a small but meaningful step as they continue to balance veteran leadership with younger talent, all while seeking to remain competitive in their pursuit of another NBA championship.
Lakers Sign Grayson Murphy, Waive Jordan Goodwin, Kyler Kelley https://t.co/NdqfEQFQLY
— RealGM (@RealGM) October 18, 2024
