Suns coach explains Jordan Goodwin, Jared Butler decision

Originally posted on Burn City Sports | By Connor Moreno | Last updated Oct 19, 2025 5:59 AM ET

PHOENIX — Phoenix Suns coach Jordan Ott spoke with the media following Saturday’s practice and addressed the decision to sign Jordan Goodwin and cut preseason standout Jared Butler.

The move, when it was reported on Friday, drew mixed reactions from the fanbase just a few days after Butler erupted for 35 points, seven rebounds and nine assists against the Los Angeles Lakers in Phoenix’s final preseason game.

“Those decisions are always tough and [Butler] made it really tough,” Ott said. “He was part of us for multiple months, and he really helped our group… Tough decision. He played well and [Goodwin] played well.”

Why Suns chose Goodwin over Butler

Taking a step back and analyzing the Suns’ needs, though, Goodwin, a gritty, culture-setting defender fits Phoenix’s needs and identity.

Butler was cut alongside David Duke Jr., and Phoenix is going into the season with 14 rostered and three two-way players. Teams can roster up to 15 players, but keeping one spot open is a common practice to maximize roster flexibility.

“The extra roster spot does give you flexibility,” Ott said. “We know how that goes throughout the season. [Goodwin] brings exactly what you’ve seen Jordan Goodwin play with for multiple years now. There’s an edge. There’s a defensive piece. He played well. He played really well since he’s been here.”

Phoenix claimed Goodwin off of waivers in free agency in late July after the Lakers were unable to retain the 26-year-old journeyman.

Goodwin averaged 12.5 points, 3.3 rebounds and 2.3 assists in 19.0 minutes per game in four preseason appearances. Good-looking stats, but what jumps out about Goodwin’s game is his relentless effort every single minute he steps on the floor.

Sacramento comes into town to open the season against Phoenix in the Mortgage Matchup Center on Wednesday, Oct. 22, at 7 p.m. PT.

Ensure you follow @BurnCitySports and @cmorenoNBA on X (Twitter) to keep up with everything Phoenix Suns!

Please let us know your thoughts by liking our Facebook page WHEN YOU CLICK RIGHT HERE.

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

More must-reads: