The Los Angeles Lakers have made an interesting move by signing Jordan Goodwin to a camp deal as they prepare for the new season. This addition underscores the Lakers’ strategy of scouting promising talent. Picture a young, undrafted guard who defies expectations with relentless drive and unwavering determination. Goodwin’s story of going from a standout high school player to an NBA hopeful showcases his perseverance, qualities the Lakers are relying on, as they improve their team.

NBA insider Chris Haynes confirmed that Goodwin has agreed to a camp deal with the Lakers. Goodwin will join the Lakers for their training camp, competing for a spot on the final roster. At 6’4″, Goodwin’s NBA journey has been marked by a series of ups and downs. After going undrafted in 2021, he initially signed with the Washington Wizards. Over two seasons with the Wizards, Goodwin appeared in 64 games, averaging 6.4 points, 3.2 rebounds, and 2.6 assists.

In the summer of 2023, the Phoenix Suns traded Goodwin as part of the Bradley Beal trade. However, he was quickly traded to the Nets in exchange for veteran forward Royce O’Neale. After being waived by the Nets, Goodwin signed a 10-day contract with the Memphis Grizzlies, which led to a two-way contract. He delivered an impressive performance with the Grizzlies. Goodwin averaged 10.0 points, 8.0 rebounds, 4.5 assists, and 1.5 steals over 17 games. Particularly, his performance against the Lakers was exceptional. He averaged 23 points and 17 rebounds.

Despite these promising performances, Goodwin’s time at the Lakers is not expected to be easy. The purple and gold already boast several capable guards, including D’Angelo Russell, Austin Reaves, and Gabe Vincent. The team also has emerging talents like Max Christie, Jalen Hood-Schifino, and Bronny James. Goodwin’s athleticism and defensive skills are valuable. But, he’ll need to outperform the existing players and prove his fit with the Lakers’ style of play to secure a regular spot on the team.

From Belleville to the NBA: early life, college journey, and professional career

High School Career

Born in Belleville, Illinois on October 23, 1998, Jordan Goodwin rose to fame as a basketball prodigy at Althoff Catholic High School. Goodwin was instrumental in his team’s 32–2 season and helped them win the Class 3A state championship. His exceptional play earned him the Belleville News-Democrat Class 3A-4A Player of the Year title. During his senior year, despite a partially torn labrum that cut his season short, Goodwin surpassed Kevin Lisch as Althoff’s all-time leading scorer. His standout performances with the St. Louis Eagles on the AAU circuit further highlighted his burgeoning talent. Opting for basketball over football scholarship offers, Goodwin committed to Saint Louis University.

College Career

Goodwin attended Saint Louis University, where his career was a blend of opportunities and challenges. He recorded the first triple-double in Saint Louis’ history with 13 points, 15 rebounds, and 10 assists in a victory over Duquesne in his freshman year. However, a suspension because of a university policy violation truncated his freshman season. Undeterred, Goodwin came back strong in his sophomore year, averaging 10.5 points, 7.5 rebounds, and 3.4 assists per game while setting a program record with 66 steals.

Goodwin became a standout player in his junior year, leading the team with averages of 15.5 points, 10.4 rebounds, and 3.1 assists per game. He earned his First Team All-Atlantic 10 and Atlantic 10 All-Defensive Team honors. Although he declared for the 2020 NBA Draft, he withdrew to complete his senior season and solidify his reputation as a top-tier player in his conference. In his senior season, he averaged 14.5 points, 10.1 rebounds, and 3.9 assists per game.

Professional Career

Goodwin went undrafted into the 2021 NBA Draft but made a mark during the NBA Summer League with the Washington Wizards, where he eventually signed a contract. He split his time between the Wizards and their affiliate, the Capital City Go-Go, showcasing his skills with averages of 15.8 points, 5.9 rebounds, and 3.6 assists per game. Before joining the Memphis Grizzlies, he went through different teams like the Phoenix Suns and Brooklyn Nets. This includes a career-best performance of 23 points and 17 rebounds against the Lakers.

Career Stats

According to the NBA’s website, Goodwin appeared in 121 NBA games in three seasons with the Memphis Grizzlies, Phoenix Suns, and Washington Wizards. He averaged 6.4 points, 3.8 rebounds and 2.7 assists in 17.9 minutes. Goodwin suited up in 57 contests for Memphis and Phoenix last season and averaged 6.5 points, 4.4 rebounds and 2.7 assists in 18.5 minutes. The site also notes that Goodwin scored double figures in 16 games in the 2023-24 season.

College Career Stats-

Goodwin’s career stats reflect a blend of potential and versatility. His performances in college set a strong foundation, and his NBA career, marked by various team transitions, demonstrates his adaptability. As he joins the Lakers, his ability to leverage his strengths and address his weaknesses will be crucial in determining his future with the team. Will he rise to the challenge and secure a lasting role with the Lakers, or will his journey continue to be a series of opportunities that come and go?