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Lakers Guard Expected to be Converted for Playoff Run

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Nick Wright | Last updated Mar 8, 2025 10:15 AM ET

The Los Angeles Lakers have transformed into legitimate title contenders since acquiring Luka Dončić, winning 20 of their last 26 games and surging to the Western Conference's No.2 seed. Now, as the playoffs approach, the team is preparing to make a critical roster adjustment involving their defensive specialist Jordan Goodwin.

According to NBA Insider Eric Pincus, the Lakers must convert Goodwin's two-way contract to a standard NBA deal if they want him available for their postseason run. With Lakers players signed after the trade deadline ineligible for the 2025 playoffs, this administrative move has become increasingly important as Goodwin's value to the team continues to grow.

Goodwin has been nothing short of outstanding since joining the Lakers on February 7. The 26-year-old has carved out a significant role as the team's premier perimeter defender, filling the void left by Max Christie's departure. Across eight appearances, Goodwin has logged double-digit minutes in seven games over his Lakers career, including four with at least 20 minutes of action.

The defensive-minded guard returned to the Lakers' active list after missing three games with an ankle injury. The timing couldn't be better as the team extended their season-high winning streak to eight with a 113-109 victory over New York on Thursday night.

"We've had a number of guys, you know, cycle through two-way contracts since the start of camp," Lakers head coach JJ Redick said on Friday. "And I think, you know, Christian (Koloko) has really done well in that role, particularly with the layoff, and then to get Goody, who, you know, we kind of foresee just being a part of the rotation."

Redick has tightened his rotation significantly during the Lakers' recent hot streak, with Goodwin firmly established among the team's top nine players. His ability to defend either guard position while contributing 6.1 points on 52.5% shooting has made him indispensable, despite limited three-point range.

The Athletic's Jovan Buha recently expanded on Goodwin's situation on his podcast, saying:

"I do expect him [Goodwin] to be converted at the end of the season as late as possible, and then be on the playoff roster. … He's kind of become the 9th man, and you could argue that depending on the night and depending on the matchup, he should be like the 8th man."

Buha added:

"I think he's going to get a multi-year contract, longer-term, later in the season. But for now, I think the Lakers are just saving some money. It's a smart move..."

The Lakers' front office now faces what appears to be a straightforward decision: convert Goodwin's contract before the playoff eligibility deadline to ensure their defensive specialist remains available for what's shaping up to be a legitimate championship pursuit.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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