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Jordan Goodwin reveals what it was really like playing alongside Austin Reaves on the LA Lakers

Originally posted on NBA Analysis Network
By Aaditya Krishnamurthy | Last updated Dec 7, 2025 3:57 PM ET

Jordan Goodwin reflected on his time with the LA Lakers, and his experience playing with Austin Reaves in a recent interview.

One of the big surprises for the Phoenix Suns this season has been the emergence of Jordan Goodwin as a reliable role player.

The Lakers let Jordan Goodwin leave this summer despite his strong performances for them last season as a two-way player.

The Suns decided to sign Goodwin after a strong preseason, and he has delivered for them in a major way with his performances.

Goodwin even briefly earned a Suns starting spot this year. In a way, his journey has been similar to his former Lakers teammate, Austin Reaves.

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Jordan Goodwin says Austin Reaves was a great leader on the court, loved playing with him

In a recent interview with EssentiallySports, Phoenix Suns star Jordan Goodwin looked back on his time playing with Austin Reaves on the LA Lakers.

He noted that Reaves would constantly communicate with him and the rest of the team on the court, often sharing valuable advice and tips for each play. Goodwin enjoyed playing with Reaves.

Is Austin Reaves a reliable No. 2 option?

Austin Reaves’ performances this season have been INSANE! He is averaging more in his fifth season in the NBA than Kobe Bryant did!

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“Just being on the court with him. He’s always just telling me, Just go hoop and play my game.’ I actually did love playing with Austin out there.

“He’s one of those guys who gets you going when you start making buckets. He’s out there talking to you. So definitely a good mix.”

Austin Reaves has been on fire this season for the LA Lakers

Austin Reaves has been one of the LA Lakers’ best players this season, only outdone by Luka Doncic in terms of his scoring.

Doncic’s agent reminded the LA Lakers that the young star is going to be a free agent this coming summer and will be looking to make max dollars.

Do the LA Lakers have the best backcourt in the NBA?

Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves are the 4th duo in 50 years to each record 30+ points in 3 straight games!

How far can this duo take the Lakers?

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To do so, Reaves will need to earn an All-Star or an All-NBA selection this season. And given how he has been playing this season, it’s very likely that’ll happen.

Without knowing it back in 2021, the LA Lakers landed their second-best player for years to come. And if they’re smart, they’ll make sure he’s with them for the rest of his career.

This article first appeared on NBA Analysis Network and was syndicated with permission.

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